Polar Regions — Antique Map, Plate 1 c.1750-1800
Polar Regions — Antique Map, Plate 1 c.1750-1800
An original copper-engraved map of the polar regions from the late 18th century, documenting European geographic understanding of the Arctic and Antarctic in the era just before the great 19th-century polar expeditions. Maps of this period typically show the Arctic coastlines then known (Greenland, Svalbard, the Russian and Siberian coasts) and Terra Australis Incognita — the speculative southern continent definitively ruled out only with Cook's Second Voyage (1772–1775).
About 18th-Century Polar Cartography
The 18th century marked a dramatic transition in polar geographic knowledge. At the beginning of the century, both polar regions remained largely mysterious: the Northwest Passage was believed to offer a navigable route from Europe to Asia, and a great southern continent (Terra Australis Incognita) was thought to balance the northern landmasses. By the end of the century, Cook's three voyages (1768–1779) had definitively disproved the southern continent; Vitus Bering's Russian expeditions (1725–1741) had mapped the North Pacific and established that Asia and North America were separated by sea; and William Bligh, George Vancouver, and other British navigators had begun the detailed charting of the northern Pacific coast. Maps from this transitional period capture the evolving state of knowledge — often with charming mixtures of accurate surveying and remaining speculation.
Why Collect Polar Maps
Polar cartography is one of the most distinctive and visually appealing specialties in antique map collecting. The circular projections, the dramatic contrast between known coastlines and blank interiors, and the decorative cartouches with polar bears, Inuit figures, and whaling scenes make these maps instantly recognizable. For collectors of exploration history, scientific illustration, or scholarly decor, 18th-century polar maps occupy a unique position — they are beautiful decorative objects AND historically significant documents of the Enlightenment project to map the entire globe.
Display Ideas
Polar maps pair beautifully with other exploration-themed pieces in studies, offices, libraries, and gentleman's rooms. The muted sepia and cream tones of typical 18th-century copper engravings complement both traditional leather-and-mahogany interiors and cleaner transitional spaces. Archival framing with UV-protective glass is recommended.
Part of a set of 5: Available individually or as part of a matched Set of 5 Polar Maps — see our bundle listing.
Dimensions
Sheet approximately 14 × 20 inches (varies by plate)
Frame: This piece ships unframed — the sheet or plate only. We can recommend framers in your area or ship to your preferred framer. Professional framing with archival materials typically runs $150–$400 depending on size and finish.
Shipping Terms
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Important Buyer Notice
These pieces are antique originals, ranging from approximately 100 to over 400 years old. Each piece will show varying degrees of age-appropriate condition: paper toning, foxing, edge wear, fold marks, minor restoration, light staining, and other natural signs of age are common and expected for works of this period. Condition varies from piece to piece.
It is the buyer's responsibility to confirm that the piece is in the condition they require before purchase. We are always happy to answer any questions about the state of the work, provide additional photographs of specific areas, describe any flaws or repairs in detail, or arrange a video review before you buy. Please contact us at any time with questions — we believe an informed buyer is the best customer.
All pieces are guaranteed authentic originals (not reproductions, facsimiles, or modern prints). We offer a full refund if authenticity is ever disputed by a qualified third party.