Irrigation in 19th century Egypt

[Maps of Egypt]. Manuscript maps of Khamarah.

€ 18.000,00

Twelve manuscript maps of agricultural basins (havd) at Khamarah, al-Beheira, Egypt, most likely from late 19th century. Each agricultural area is divided into small plots of land, also showing rivers or wetland areas and occasionally a few residential areas. Borders with towns such as Daqduqah, Jabaris, al-Uyun or with other basins are clearly indicated in the outlines of the maps. Each map is accompanied by a table on the facing page which gives the size of each parcel of land and additional notes on necessary parcels. The first leaf offers a detailed explanation of colours and designs used in the maps, followed by a table of all areas. Today, the village of Khamarah is part of of the city of Itay El Barud (though in the manuscript it is described as a district of al-Delengat). Beheira, the governorate that includes Khamarah, is considered one of the most important agricultural regions in Egypt.