Tectonic Map Of Australia – First Edition – Map On Four Sheets

Price: £650
Publisher: Bureau of Mineral Resources, Geology and Geophysics
Publication Date: 1960
Edition: 1st edition
Format: Original colour printing
Condition: Near fine
Scale: 1:2534400
Total Size: 196.30cm x 165.6cm including margins

Condition:

Compiled by the Tectonic Map Committee, Geological Society of Australia in association with the Commonwealth Bureau of Mineral Resources, Geology and Geophysics and the State Mines Department. Drawn and published by the Bureau of Mineral Resources, Geology and Geophysics, Department of National Development. Four separate sheets. The first photograph shows how the map would look if they were joined together. Original central fold lines. Total map size: 196.30cm x 165.6cm including margins. Reverse is blank with very minor marks. Minor wear to a couple of edges. Map bright and clean. In near fine, original and un-restored condition.   Location: PCSR: Map drawer D: 002712

Tectonic Map Of Australia: A Brief Description

The 1960 tectonic map of Australia presents a scientific depiction of the continent’s geological framework, as understood at the time. It illustrates the distribution of major tectonic features, fault systems, structural provinces, and significant crustal boundaries, shaped over hundreds of millions of years through tectonic activity.

Major Tectonic Provinces
Australia is broadly divided into several tectonic provinces, each characterised by distinct geological histories and crustal compositions. These include:

• The Western Shield (or Western Craton): Dominated by ancient Precambrian rocks, this area encompasses the Yilgarn and Pilbara cratons, among the oldest sections of continental crust on Earth. These regions are stable and largely undeformed, having resisted major tectonic reworking since the Archaean.
• The Central Tectonic Zone: Situated between the western and eastern geological provinces, this region contains complex Proterozoic terrains. The Capricorn Orogen and the Paterson Orogen, for example, represent zones of past continental collision and reactivation.
• The Eastern Fold Belt (or Eastern Mobile Belt): This younger and more tectonically active zone includes the Tasman Orogenic Zone, which spans much of eastern Australia. It comprises folded and faulted Palaeozoic sedimentary and volcanic rocks, recording numerous orogenic events associated with subduction and continental accretion.

Major Fault Systems and Structural Elements
The 1960 map delineates several prominent fault zones and shear zones, crucial in defining tectonic boundaries and influencing crustal deformation:

• The Darling Fault: A significant geological feature that marks the boundary between the Yilgarn Craton and the Perth Basin. It has been active at various points through geological time, though largely inactive by the mid-20th century.
• The Halls Creek and Kimberley Fault Zones: Located in the north-west, these structures exhibit a record of Proterozoic tectonic activity, with implications for mineralisation.
• The Tasman Line: A major tectonic boundary separating the older cratonic interior from the younger eastern orogenic belts. Though its exact location remained debated in 1960, it was broadly recognised as a fundamental crustal feature.

Sedimentary Basins and Passive Margins
Numerous sedimentary basins are depicted, such as the Canning, Amadeus, and Eromanga Basins. These basins represent tectonically stable regions where thick sequences of sediments accumulated over time. In the 1960s, their role in petroleum and gas exploration began to gain significance.

Continental Margins and Oceanic Influence
Along the edges of the Australian continent, the map shows passive continental margins where the continent transitions into oceanic crust. The development of the surrounding ocean basins, particularly the Southern Ocean and parts of the Indian Ocean, was only just becoming understood through theories of continental drift and sea-floor spreading, which were still emerging concepts in 1960.

Tectonic Evolution (As Interpreted in 1960)
The map reflects a pre-plate tectonics interpretation, focusing on structural and lithological features rather than dynamic processes. Continental drift was a topic of debate, and while the idea of mobile continents was known, it had yet to be widely accepted in geological circles. Thus, tectonic zones were explained in terms of orogeny, basin formation, and cratonic stability rather than plate boundaries or mantle dynamics.

Conclusion
The 1960 tectonic map of Australia stands as a testament to mid-20th-century geological understanding. It highlights the continent’s complex structural make-up, shaped by deep-time processes including orogenesis, sedimentation, and crustal reworking. While modern interpretations have since evolved with plate tectonics, the 1960 map provides a valuable snapshot of a continent in geological transition — both physically and intellectually.
 

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE AT HORNSEYS

At Hornseys, we are dedicated to offering items that uphold the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of artwork is carefully curated to ensure that each item we offer is authentic, collated, and complete.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Each map is researched and verified for authenticity.
• Expert Curation: We wholly own all our artworks. We trust our taste and have invested heavily in it. We have confidence in all artwork that we offer for sale.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If, however, you wish to make a return, artworks may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for whatever reason. We request that we are notified in advance if you wish to do so. They must be returned to us in the same condition as they were sent for a full refund.

OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND SERVICE

Understanding the value and rarity of these items, we ensure that every aspect of your purchase meets the highest standards of quality and service. This includes:

• Free Expedited, Tracked, and Insured Delivery within the UK: Ensuring that your artwork arrives safely and promptly.
• Fully-Insured Worldwide Delivery: Offering peace of mind for international collectors with reliable and secure shipping options.

EXPLORE OUR COLLECTION

Visit Hornseys today to explore our fine collection of maps and other artworks. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a special gift, our selection offers something truly unique. Located since 1976 in Ripon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, we are recognized as a destination gallery for tastefully curated artwork, rare maps, design, and fine books.