Picture Map Of China - Scarce Pictorial Map Of China From The Early 1930S. Frank Randolph Southard

This uncommon pictorial map of the Republic of China was designed by Frank Randolph Southard and published in New York by The Friendship Press in 1932. It is one of the few pre-WWII maps of the genre to depict the 'Middle Kingdom', just two decades after 2,000+ years of imperial authority was overthrown. The central image focuses on the topography and transportation network of the nation. The Himalayas are immediately apparent in the southwest, though presented in a stylized fashion. Railways and navigable rivers are emphasized, with small junks found on the latter. The Great Wall is also pictured, with its eastern end effectively functioning as the northern border of China. The year before publication, Japan invaded the province of Manchuria and installed a puppet government. An elaborate border romanticizes the culture, community, and industry of the Chinese people. Numerous scenes show traditional craftwork, architecture, and activities from daily life. Chinese characters and motifs are also attractively incorporated, while conventional landscapes anchor each corner. Sheet Width (in) 49.75 Sheet Height (in) 38.25 Condition Description Professionally flattened and mounted onto linen for preservation and stability. Soft creasing and light wear along former fold lines (as issued). Two large areas of the sheet have been sectioned off with blue and red manuscript updates. Good to very good condition overall.