Map of the World from the Atlas sive cosmographicae

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Map of the World from the Atlas sive cosmographicae", originally brought to life by the talented Gerard Mercator. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Gerard Mercator and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

The Map of the World from the "Atlas sive cosmographicae meditationes de fabrica mundi et fabricati figura" (Atlas or cosmographic meditations upon the creation of the universe, and the universe as created), commonly known as Mercator's Atlas, is a seminal work in the history of cartography and geography. Created by the Flemish geographer and cartographer Gerardus Mercator in 1595, this world map and the accompanying atlas represent a monumental achievement in the representation of the earth's surface. Gerard Mercator, born on March 5, 1512, in Rupelmonde, County of Flanders, is renowned for introducing the Mercator projection, a revolutionary method of depicting the globe on a flat surface in a way that preserves angular relationships and enables straight lines to represent loxodromes or rhumb lines, making it invaluable for navigation.

The Atlas itself was a culmination of decades of work and was published posthumously by Mercator's son, Rumold Mercator, in 1595. The work was groundbreaking, not only for its use of the Mercator projection but also for its attempt to collate and synthesize the geographical knowledge of the time into a comprehensive and coherent form. The Map of the World, as part of this atlas, is particularly notable for its detailed depiction of continents, oceans, and the myriad features of the Earth's surface as understood in the late 16th century. It reflects the Age of Discovery's expansion of European geographical knowledge, incorporating information from explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and others.

Mercator's world map was innovative in its scientific approach to cartography, emphasizing accuracy and detail over the decorative elements common in earlier maps. It was also among the first to apply the term "atlas" to a collection of maps, derived from the mythical Titan, Atlas, who was said to hold the sky on his shoulders, symbolizing the comprehensive nature of Mercator's work in holding the world's geography.

The impact of Mercator's Atlas and his world map was profound, influencing not only the field of cartography but also the navigation practices of the time. It laid the groundwork for future mapmaking and exploration, providing a more reliable tool for sailors and explorers. The Mercator projection, despite its later criticism for distortion at high latitudes, remained the standard for nautical charts for centuries due to its navigational utility.

Today, the Map of the World from Mercator's Atlas is recognized as a landmark in the history of cartography, celebrated for its technical innovation, breadth of information, and its role in shaping the European understanding of the world during a pivotal era of exploration and discovery. It remains a subject of study for historians, geographers, and cartographers, illustrating the evolution of mapmaking and the enduring quest to comprehend and document the globe.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.