Collecting Antique Maps - How do you see the world? More Tips for the Novice

For those new to collecting antique maps the passion sometimes starts with just wanting to put something on the wall. Now you're thinking maybe a map would look the part.  Before you even get into anything serious and asking questions like what should I collect? or even how do you get started with collecting?   At this stage its more, what will look good on the wall?

If that's you then maybe consider a map of the world or some kind of map projection. This is a good place to start.  Hemisphere projections are those maps you see that convert half of a spherical world to a circle.  These hemispheres kind of change how we see the world. They are normally centered on the Western-Eastern or Northern-Southern  hemispheres.  The larger hemispheres also look pretty impressive with a well selected mount and frame.  This could be you're first choice in starting with a map thats really a piece of wall art for your home.   Also it's bound to be a conversation starter when you have you're friends around for dinner!

Above: Original Antique Map c1730 "Eastern Hemisphere" Orbis veteribus noti tabula nova by Guillaume De L'Isle (1675-1726) Published: Amsterdam, J Covens & C. Mortier. Approx engraved area: 19.5" X 19.5".

This early eighteenth century French cartographer was renowned for the accuracy of his maps. Australia is shown according to the two voyages of Abel Tasman 1642-1644.  De L'Isle studied under Jean Cassini and from an early age showed his talent. De L'Isle is important as the first "scientific" cartographer who incorporated the most current information on exploration and topography into his maps. Where he was unable to verify information conclusively, he would note the fact on his maps.

You can see the full details for "Orbis veteribus noti tabula nova"  HERE