antique cartography

Antique cartography is the study and collection of historical maps, which reflect the geographical knowledge, cultural perspectives, and artistic styles of their time. These maps, often created before the advent of modern technology, serve as valuable records of how people understood their world. They reveal shifts in political boundaries, exploration routes, and even mythological beliefs. Collectors and historians value antique maps not only for their historical significance but also for their craftsmanship, often enhancing our understanding of past societies and their environments.