PREFACE 



A MAP can be considered from several aspects, as a scientific 

 report, a historical document, a research tool, and an object of 

 art. In this outline I have endeavoured to balance these con- 

 siderations, and to regard maps as products of a number of 

 processes and influences. Severe selection of topics has been 

 necessary, and many of considerable interest have had to be 

 omitted. In particular. Oriental cartography is not dealt with, 

 nor is the cartography of individual countries. My aim has 

 been to indicate the main stages of cartographic development 

 to which many countries have contributed in turn. 



The scope of this series does not permit extensive illustra- 

 tions. I have therefore given in an appendix a list of the more 

 important volumes of map reproductions. The best reproduc- 

 tions, however, are no substitute for the originals, and the only 

 way to study them satisfactorily is by personal inspection — 

 though this is a counsel of perfection in present conditions. 



I owe a debt of gratitude to the colleagues and friends with 

 whom at various times I have discussed much of the subject 

 matter of this book: in particular to Prof. E. G. R. Taylor, 

 Prof. R. Almagia, Dr. A. Z. Cortesao, and M. Marcel Des- 

 tombes: to those in charge of the great map collections, par- 

 ticularly Mile. M. Foncin, Conservateur des Cartes, Biblio- 

 theque Nationale, Paris, and Mr. R. A. Skelton, Superintendent, 

 Map Room, British Museum; and my colleagues, past and 

 present, at the Royal Geographical Society. They have of 

 course no responsibility for any errors or shortcomings on my 

 part. 



The outline maps were drawn by Mrs. P. S. Verity, of the 

 R.G.S. Drawing Office. 



G.R.C. 



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