Rare Old OS Map of Oban & Loch Awe, Argyllshire by Bartholomew, 1901: Firth of Lorn, Loch Awe, Ben Cruachan, Glen Coe, Isle of Mull, Loch Lomond

Sheet 11 - Oban & Loch Awe, crafted by the esteemed JG Bartholomew in 1901, is a captivating glimpse into the western Highlands of Scotland at the turn of the 20th century. This map, part of Bartholomew's renowned Half-Inch to the Mile series, was a favourite among cyclists and tourists, celebrated for its clarity and vibrant use of colour. Bartholomew's innovative technique of using gradations of colour to depict landscape relief adds a unique visual appeal, making the map both a functional navigational tool and a work of art. The map's meticulous detail and aesthetic beauty reflect Bartholomew's reputation as one of Scotland's foremost cartographers.

The design of this map is particularly striking, employing a landscape orientation that spans 36 miles from north to south and 52 miles from west to east. The careful gradation of colours not only highlights the varied topography but also brings the region's natural beauty to life. From the serene waters of Loch Awe and Loch Etive to the rugged peaks of Ben Cruachan and Ben More, the map captures the dramatic contrasts of the Scottish landscape. The intricate depiction of glens such as Glen Coe and Glen Orchy further enhances the map's allure, offering a detailed view of the region's valleys and waterways.

Historically, this map provides invaluable insight into the geography and infrastructure of the area during a period of burgeoning tourism and transportation development. The inclusion of roads, railways, and other transportation routes underscores the growing accessibility of the Highlands, making it a significant document for understanding the era's travel and exploration trends. The map also reflects the cultural and economic importance of towns like Oban, Lochgilphead, and Inveraray, which served as key hubs for trade and tourism.

The natural features highlighted on this map are as diverse as they are breathtaking. Loch Lomond, Loch Tay, and Loch Fyne are just a few of the prominent bodies of water that dominate the landscape, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. The Sound of Mull and the Firth of Lorn further illustrate the region's intricate network of waterways, which have long been vital for transportation and commerce. The inclusion of the Isle of Mull, Isle of Jura, Isle of Islay, and Isle of Bute adds another layer of geographic interest, showcasing the archipelago's rich and varied terrain.

Bartholomew's map is not just a representation of physical geography but also a window into the historical and cultural context of the time. The detailed portrayal of natural phenomena, such as the dramatic mountain ranges and serene lochs, invites viewers to explore the Highlands' majestic landscapes. This map stands as a testament to Bartholomew's cartographic prowess and his ability to blend scientific precision with artistic elegance, making it a treasured piece for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Cities and towns on this map

• Argyllshire:
• Oban (modern-day population: ~8,500)
• Lochgilphead (modern-day population: ~2,300)
• Inveraray (modern-day population: ~600)
• Perthshire:
• Killin (modern-day population: ~700)

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Loch Awe
• Loch Etive
• Loch Fyne
• Loch Lomond
• Loch Tay
• Loch Eck
• Ben Cruachan
• Ben Lui
• Ben More
• Glen Coe
• Glen Orchy
• Glen Lochy
• Glen Etive
• Glen Strae
• Sound of Mull
• Firth of Lorn
• Isle of Mull
• Isle of Jura
• Isle of Islay
• Isle of Bute

Historical and design context

• A clear, attractive and colourful map at the half-inch to the mile scale (1:126,720).
• Popular with cyclists and tourists, and became Bartholomew's flagship series.
• Used different layers of colour to represent landscape relief, with a subtle and innovative gradation of colour bands to show land at different heights.
• Based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map from the same period.
• Date of creation: 1901
• Mapmaker/Publisher: JG Bartholomew
• Bartholomew was a renowned Scottish cartographer known for his detailed and aesthetically pleasing maps.
• The map highlights the natural beauty and geographical diversity of the region, making it useful for both practical navigation and educational purposes.
• The use of colour gradation to indicate elevation was innovative for its time and added a visual appeal that made the map both functional and artistic.
• The map is a valuable historical document that provides insight into the geography and infrastructure of the region at the turn of the 20th century.
• Reflects the growing popularity of cycling and tourism during this period, as well as advancements in cartographic techniques.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 20in (50cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.