This beautiful old world map wall art map wall art oversized map old map decor and antique map of the world is perfect for any room and a wonderful gift!

Willem Blaeu's (Nova Totius Terrarum Orbis Geographica ac Hydrographica Tabula)
This map is the first exciting rendition of MERCATOR's projection map, the first style of map to put the Prime Meridian across the center of the map, thusly avoiding the awkwardness of a series of circles. Is is a fine example of the golden age of Dutch maps, the map masterminds of the time.

The map incorporates some of the classic early 17th Century cartographic misconceptions, including the elongated NW Coast of America, massive southern hemisphere with narrow strait between it and South America, incomplete New Guinea attached to large southern continent, etc. Latin text on the verso.

The map is now famous for its elaborate ornamentation, embellished with ships, sea monsters, compass roses, and ornate border panels. Across the top are allegorical representations of the sun and moon and the five known planets - Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. The four basic elements, Fire, Air, Water, and Land, are illustrated on the left panel, while the four seasons are depicted on the right panel. The seven wonders of the ancient world are displayed in the bottom panels.

One of the original documents has recently sold for over $24,000.

About Great River Arts: Great River Arts started its journey in 2006 when Lisa Middleton began restoring and painting historical French maps of the Mississippi River. Art collectors and interior designers loved the subtle enchantment of the gently painted maps, and demand for her restored and painted historic maps quickly spread across the country.

Her historical map collection rapidly developed into custom map services for private estates, resorts, lakes, public lands, and regional attractions-all with the vintage charm of Lisa's earlier works, applying borders, cartouches, and fonts found in historic maps from the 1850's and earlier.

Each piece of art created by Lisa is the result of an in-depth, collaborative process between cartographers, architects, colorists and professional researchers. An intrepid traveler, Lisa continues to paint originals and work with her design team from the road and her home base near Glacier National Park, Montana. She pursues new map suggestions and collaborations every day. Please stay updated on Lisa's newest maps and travels at facebook.com/greatriverarts!

Disclaimer: All sizes are approximate. While great care was taken to produce this map, the information was derived from digital databases from various sources. Great River Arts cannot be responsible for errors, omissions, or positional accuracy in our custom map designs other than our intent to provide fascinating information and a delightful memory. Historical maps often contain misspellings and information that might not be accurate. Neither genre should be used for navigation. The user of this map bears full responsibility for his or her safety of person and equipment. There is no warranty, expressed or implied that this map is suitable for an particular purpose. We do appreciate you letting us know of any errors or suggestions at [email protected] Let us help you with our unique custom map design services.Full refund if returned in original condition within 14 days. Buyer pays return shipping.