Political map of Arabia marking William Gifford Palgrave's route from Gaza to Muscat, as well as traditional caravan tracks.

Of particular interest are the early political divisions of the Peninsula between the Sultan of Oman, the Sultan of Shomar, the Sultan of the Wahhabee, and the Ottoman Empire. Kuwait is coloured separately, suggesting that its ownership was either shared or disputed at the time.

A controversial figure at the time, Palgrave became one of the most famous and notorious 19th century explorers of Arabia. It is likely he was working for the French government during his journey. His most famous exploits deal with his involvement in palace intrigues in Riyadh, where he was accused in plotting to aid the assassination of the ruler of Nejd. Although also accused of being a Christian, he managed to extricate himself from these problems and make his way to Muscat. 

His account of his travels and adventures became one of the most popular of all 19th century works on the Arabian Peninsula. 

Original hand-colour. [MEAST4833]