Universal Map from the Cosmographia
1544
About this artwork
This is a world map featuring an oval projection, surrounded by personifications of winds as cherubic faces in the clouds, from the 1544 edition of Cosmographia.
Did you know?
Sebastian Münster's Cosmographia was one of the most influential and popular geography books of the 16th century, playing a crucial role in bringing geographical knowledge to the wider public. This particular map is notable for its inclusion of 'Terra Nova' (the New World) and decorative wind heads, which were standard artistic flourishes in Renaissance cartography to signify the cardinal directions.
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
Universal Map from the Cosmographia
Sebastian Münster, 1544
