Antique World Map

Map-making and the representation of the surface features of man's environment can be traced as far back as the pre-Christian era. The earliest discovered specimens closest to maps are the Babylonian maps drawn on clay tablets. Indigenous peoples also used to draw local and regional maps on cloth, bark of trees, or animal skin using indigenous techniques. Then came the ancient Egyptians who used ancient hieroglyphics to draw maps. These early experiments with rudimentary map-making notwithstanding, serious efforts to draw maps on a world scale began only with the ancient Greeks and their efforts to understand the shape and size of the then known world. One path-breaking cartographic innovation in the ancient world was the world map by Ptolemy. Ptolemy's world map influenced many early maps and map-making techniques in the ancient world for several centuries to come.

Some of the ancient world maps that survived are considered antique pieces today and are prized by collectors all over the world. Among the various antique maps, the antique world maps are the ones that enjoy the most universal appeal. There are several characteristics that enhance the value of an antique world map. Thematically speaking, some of the most popular antique world maps are those representing the world at the time of the early explorations and discoveries. The size of an antique world map is also important as larger the map greater is the scope to represent details. Some antique world maps were produced in few numbers and even fewer antique maps survive today. The rarity associated with a world antique map also enhances it value among collectors.

Another related characteristic that enhances the value of an antique world map is its age or date of production; the earlier the better. Collectors also increasingly consider aesthetic qualities of antique world maps. Some of the highly sought after antique world maps are ones illustrated by mythological and mythical creatures like sea monsters and spirits, marine instruments like anchors, and ships. The color and physical conditions also impact on the value of an antique world map. While some collectors prefer antique maps that have been considerably restored and their physical conditions improved with the use of modern techniques and colors, there are others who prefer them as they are found with stains, yellowing paper and other marks and signs of antiquity. It is in the latter characteristics wherein lies the charm of an antique world map.