Charming antique map of North America from the children’s atlas Geographische LänderFibel by Julius Löwenberg, published in Berlin in 1846. The map provides an interesting depiction of the continent, with various territories distinguished by a beautiful chromatic arrangement. It marks the “Vereinigten Staaten” (United States), “Mexiko”, and the northern region still under the rule of Russisch-Amerika (Russian America, now Alaska, which was then a Russian possession). Texas is also indicated separately from Mexico, reflecting its period of independence before its annexation to the United States in 1845, as well as the presence of the Antilles in the Caribbean Sea.
At the top center of the frame, a medallion features a portrait of Christopher Columbus (1451–1506), the Genoese explorer who, under the patronage of Spain, reached the Americas in 1492. Around him, nautical instruments such as a compass and a sextant symbolize navigation and maritime exploration. His role as the “discoverer” of the New World is thus emphasized, highlighting the significance of his voyages in the history of European colonization of the Americas.
The decorative framework is enriched with scenes representing different aspects of the history, culture, and indigenous populations of North America. These include whale fishermen, a trapper armed with a rifle, symbolizing westward expansion and the fur trade, and, at the bottom right, a European settler and a Native American who appear to be conversing or trading.
Published in Berlin in 1846 by Verlag von Stern und Comp., Geographische Länder-Fibel is an educational work composed of 21 illustrated maps accompanied by verses. This children’s atlas aimed to make geography more accessible and engaging through the use of detailed maps and educational poetry. Each map represented a different region or country, enriched with illustrations of traditional costumes, monuments, and cultural scenes, offering both a geographical and cultural overview of the depicted areas.
The maps included in the atlas bear the signature “by Anst. v. A. Boeden of Berlin” at the bottom right. This inscription refers to the Anstalt von A. Boeden, a Berlin-based studio specializing in the production of maps and lithographic illustrations. The Anstalt von A. Boeden collaborated with various authors and publishers of the time, creating cartographic works for both educational and informative purposes. The precision and attention to detail in their lithographs reflect their high level of craftsmanship and their dedication to making maps both informative and visually appealing.
Julius Löwenberg (1800 – 1893): A Scholar of Geography
Julius Löwenberg was a German geographer and author, renowned for his prolific literary contributions in the field of geography and his close collaboration with the renowned naturalist Alexander von Humboldt.
Born in Strelno, Prussia (now Strzelno, Poland), Löwenberg began his education at a Talmudic school in Kleczewo before attending the gymnasium in Thorn. He continued his studies at the University of Berlin, where he focused on Church history, Christian dogmatics, and geography under the guidance of Carl Ritter. During his university years, he developed a strong literary output, which, thanks to his friendship with Alexander von Humboldt, gradually became increasingly focused on geography.
Löwenberg maintained both a professional and personal relationship with Humboldt. He made a significant contribution to Humboldt’s scientific biography, edited by Karl Christian Bruhns, by compiling a meticulous bibliography of all the scientist’s publications. This collaboration culminated in the publication of a three-volume biography, which remains a fundamental source for Humboldt studies.
Löwenberg published several geographical works distinguished by their clarity, rich illustrations, and educational value. His famous Länder-Fibel, from which this map originates, was designed to introduce children to the study of geography through illustrated maps enriched with artistic and cultural elements.
