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This four-sheet map of India—featuring an inset map of Burma (Myanmar) —was created for use in Indian schools by Devendranath Dhar, a self-taught Calcutta-based mapmaker. He sent it to the Royal Asiatic Society for advice on publication.

Navigation map of the mouth of the Padang Tikar River, on the west coast of Borneo, featuring bathymetric (water depth) routes. Obstructions are marked with letters: ‘m’ (mud), ‘z’ (sand). Trees, hills and fishermen’s houses are shown as landmarks.

Navigation map of the mouth of the Padang Tikar River, on the west coast of Borneo, featuring bathymetric (water depth) routes. Obstructions are marked with letters: ‘m’ (mud), ‘z’ (sand). Trees, hills and fishermen’s houses are shown as landmarks.

A map documenting the effects of the Krakatoa volcanic eruption, detailing the destruction of part of the Krakatoa Island and damage to surrounding areas. Created by a ship’s captain who passed through the Sunda Strait five days after the eruption.

Two maritime routes—for use during the North-east and ‘fair’ monsoons—are shown on this late 19th century navigation map. The routes lead north through Southeast Asia, passing the Philippines, and ending in Hong Kong. Bathymetry (sea depth) is shown.

A late 19th century map of the Dutch East Indies on four sheets, detailing maritime routes around the region. There are also inset maps showing railways, rivers, roads, and telegraph systems, as well as individual islands and cities.

Hand-drawn map of the roadstead—a body of water sheltered from tides/currents, for ships to anchor—at Analaboe (Meulaboh) on the west coast of northern Sumatra. Bathymetry (sea depth), shoals and reefs, and an anchor point are marked.

This late 19th century map of Southeast Asia shows the best maritime routes around the region, according to the time of year. There are also inset maps highlighting the rivers and southern islands of Singapore, and the sea depth around Labuan Island.

Two maps of the Banda Islands—one of the whole group; the other focusing on the larger islands only—with an elaborate cartouche illustrated with six views of the islands. There is also a drawing of the volcano on Goenong Api (Banda Api).

Designed to aid navigation around the western Java Sea, this map features bathymetry (sea depth), current and tide data, and is marked with shoals, reefs and other hazards. Written notes add details at specific locations (e.g. ‘heavy tide rips’).

This detailed map of the Dutch East Indies in the mid-19th century contains a great deal of information: topographical details, settlements and administrative areas, roads, railways and maritime routes, telegraph lines, inset maps etc.

Map of a proposed extension of a telegraph system from Rangoon (Yangon, Myanmar) to China. Includes current and projected railways, steam ship routes, and population figures for western China. From the British magazine ‘The Illustrated London News’.