Steve Bartrick Antique Prints & Maps
Information - images

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Notes to the images on my Web pages.

Most of the small thumbnail images link to a larger image.

However, please note the images as displayed on your monitor screen are for guidance only.

Many factors come into play when illustrating maps and prints; the main ones being -

• The quality of the scanning or imaging device.
• Difficulties scanning engraved areas due to interference patterns. (This is why banknotes are still often printed from engraved plates.)
• Colour variations between different computer monitors, the lighting conditions in which images are viewed and even the windows colour scheme used when viewing images.
• The image compression needed to reduce the image file size to a reasonable level for transmission over the internet - this is a major drawback as the compression levels needed are far too high for a really good image.

Larger items present the greatest problem. When an image of a large map or print is reduced in size and compressed much of the detail is lost. Until internet technology has improved in the next few years this will be unavoidable.

Therefore please note -

• Many of the items illustrated do not show the titles and are cropped close to the image edge, this reduces the image file size considerably allowing me to illustrate more items. Unless otherwise stated they do have decent margins. More recent scans now often include titles as the speed of the net has improved.
• Most images are not actual size - remember to check the dimensions given.
• If you wish to see a 'close up' from any of my items please mail me, I can then send (or upload) a detailed scan of part of the item.
• If you like the image you see on your monitor rest assured the actual item will be far superior.
• I have tried to list any faults that may not be apparent from any image displayed.

AOL users - please click here see my extra notes regarding viewing images

Example of the quality of my scanned images compared to the original item -

These examples are from a large steel engraving dating from 1849

1. Thumbnail image as displayed on my pages.

2. Larger image linked to the thumbnail as would be displayed on my pages. This one is about 50 percent the size of the original print.

3. Close up of the monkey's face - larger than actual size.

4. Ultra close up of the monkey's face, much larger than actual size. The individual engraved lines can be seen in this image. The area shown is less than 1 inch (2 cms) tall on the actual print. As can be seen, this print displays very high quality engraving.