Old World Map, 1626 by John Speed
This is a superb example of an exceedingly rare, full colour map by John Speed in 1626. It was one of the first world maps printed in England, and one of the first atlases written in English rather than Latin. John Speed was one of the fathers of cartography.
This map was beautifully handcoloured almost 400 years ago. Sourced and restored by the Unique Maps Co., this is the finest copy of this map – which is one of the rarest and most valuable world maps – that you can find.
This map looks great at all sizes: 12×16 inches (31x41cm), 18×24 inches (45.5x61cm) and 24×36 inches (61×91.5cm), but it looks even better when printed large.
I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 100 inches (250cm). Please get in touch if you’re looking for larger, customised or different framing options.
The model in the listing images is holding the 24×18 inch (61×45.5cm) version of this map.
I have an almost identical world map, again created by John Speed, depending on your room’s aesthetic/decor, you might prefer this version.
Back in 1626, our understanding of the world wasn’t quite what it is today. California is an island! And there’s no Antarctica or Australia – just the ‘Southern Unknown Land’.
Take a closer look at North America and there are some very early settlements on there – including some that have been completely fabricated by the mapmaker! And why does North America swing off wildly to the west in the top corner?
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father’s Day, work leaving or housewarming gift for someone who loves to travel or explore.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you’d like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
