The modern jigsaw puzzle can trace its origins back to the ‘dissected maps’ first produced in England in the 18th century. They were created by engraving and printing a map on paper, which was then mounted onto a piece of wood and cut into shapes. Although jigsaw puzzles are a popular leisure activity today, early dissected maps were intended as educational tools to teach children geography. This example from 1820 was produced by William Darton, a map seller and publisher of children’s books and puzzles.  

A hand-coloured engraved map on mahogany board with accompanying mahogany box , acquired in 2022 through a donation to the State Library of NSW Foundation in honour of the late Barbara Thomas .