Pair of 19th century map of the world’s hemispheres

A pair of maps of each hemisphere, both surrounded by decorative borders with vignettes of costumes and animals. Of particular interest is the mail route from England to Australia and Hong Kong marked on the eastern sheet. The map was drawn and engraved by John Rapkin for the 'The Illustrated Atlas, and Modern History of the World, Geographical Political, Commercial & Statistical', edited by Montgomery Martin. Published to coincide with London's 'Great Exhibition' of 1851. It was one of the last decorative atlases to be published.