Historical Map Print
A historical map print brings centuries of cartography and hand-tinted geography into modern rooms through framed works spanning the seventeenth century to the Edwardian era.
Historical Map Print
When searching for a historical map print, collectors encounter framed cartography, atlas plates, and wall art spanning periods from pre-sixteenth century works to Edwardian printings. The pieces on this page originate from English, Dutch, French, Flemish, Italian, and Welsh cartographic traditions, depicting counties, regions, and entire continents.
County maps and global voyages form the core of the selection, featuring detailed depictions such as Hertfordshire, Cambridge, and global routes from voyages around the world. These works frequently arrive ready to hang in frames constructed from wood and glass.
The material formats range from steel engravings and lithography to original sheet maps pulled from historical atlases. Many examples incorporate hand-applied watercolour over ink on paper substrates, preserving the visual character intended by early publishers.
What varies in quality
The distinction between tiers rests upon the clarity of the plate impression and the precision of the early hand-colouring applied to the paper. Sharpness in the engraved typography and crispness of geographical boundaries separate workshop impressions pulled from worn plates from those struck early in a publishing run.
Condition and provenance dictate the standing of individual examples, with complete margins and original binding folds commanding greater attention from purists. The quality of the accompanying framing materials, from simple wood mouldings to period gilt surrounds, further influences the overall presentation.
Current listings feature maps printed on paper using ink and watercolour, housed within wood and glass frames spanning the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries.
Blaeu·Ogilby·Braun and Hogenberg·Johannes Janssonius·John Speed·Robert Morden·Thomas Jefferys·Eman Bowen·Claes Jansz Visscher·Colton·JAS WYLD·C. Smith·J. Duncan
The Historical Map Print Glossary
- Cartography
- The study and practice of making maps. This discipline forms the foundation of all historical geographical prints.
- Cartouche
- A decorative frame or medallion on a map enclosing the title, scale, or publisher details. These ornate elements often reflect the artistic style of the period.
- Plate mark
- The indentation left on paper by the edge of a copper printing plate under pressure. Its presence confirms an authentic intaglio printing method.
- Laid paper
- Handmade paper showing a grid of fine parallel lines and wider spaced chain lines when held to the light. This substrate appears frequently in early works.
- Hand-coloured
- Details or borders painted onto a monochrome print by hand using watercolour pigments. This technique added aesthetic appeal and territorial clarity to early editions.
Historical Map Print: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hang a framed map?
Support the weight using appropriate wall fixings suited to the timber frame and glass composition. Position the piece at eye level away from direct sunlight to protect the paper and ink.
Ensure the hanging wire or brackets securely anchor into structural studs or masonry. This prevents accidental slips and keeps the antique frame stable against the wall surface.
Are these original antique maps?
The inventory comprises works printed during their stated historical periods, ranging from sixteenth-century woodcuts to nineteenth-century steel engravings and lithographs. Each piece reflects the printing technology and geographic knowledge of its specific era of production.
Examinations of the paper substrate, plate marks, and typography help verify the age of the printing. Reference to known publishers and cartographers further confirms their historical authenticity.
How should I clean the glass?
Apply a mild glass cleaner to a soft cloth rather than spraying directly onto the frame. This prevents liquid from seeping past the wooden rebate and damaging the antique paper inside.
Wipe the surface gently and dry it immediately with a lint-free cloth. Take care to avoid applying pressure that might flex the glazing against the map print.
Can I remove the map from its frame?
Opening period frames risks disturbing fragile historical paper, acidic backing boards, and original mounting materials that preserve the work. Conservation framing techniques protect the piece from dust, humidity, and physical contact.
Leaving the assembly intact maintains the structural stability achieved by past framers. Consult a paper conservator if the backing requires evaluation or replacement.