C.1642 Historic Map of the World Framed Print

This exquisite 1642 double hemisphere map of the world includes pictorial relief illustrations and detailed notations from Marco Polo, most notably the place name ‘Terra Australis Incognita’.

Originally hand-coloured to define the continents, it’s embellished with allegorical spandrel vignettes representing celestial hemispheres, North and South Poles, sailing ships, and even sea monsters. Full of fascinating detail, it shows the world as it was understood in the 17th century, complete with inaccuracies such as North America extending to an oddly shaped Japan.

Prints of this style were originally printed in black and white and then hand-painted over the top to give them bright vibrant colours. Remastered to restore damage and bring back the original colours, these antique pieces are printed with archival-grade methods to ensure the highest quality and prevent ageing.

Framed ready to hang