World Maps - by Kevin J Brown (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A Journey Through Eras and Cultures: explore how different civilizations have represented the world over the centuries, from 18th-century Buddhist maps in Japan to the bold speculations of European cartographers. The Mystery and Wonder of Cartography: discover how ancient maps reflected not only geography but also beliefs, myths, and dreams of uncharted lands and distant civilizations. From Speculative Maps to the Modern World: understand the evolution of cartography, from imaginative depictions to precise tools, revealing how humans have sought to make sense of the world. An Expert in Rare Maps as Your Guide: written by Kevin J. Brown, renowned dealer of rare maps and founder of Geographicus Rare Antique Maps, this book offers a deep and authoritative analysis of historical cartography.

This illustrated book relates the history of the world through maps, from the first maps known to propaganda maps in the 20th century. It not only provides geographical descriptions, but also retraces the history of our perception of the world, of our fellow human beings, and fundamentally of us. The maps included show different ways - religious, social, scientific, economic - of seeing the world and of relating to it.

About the Author

Kevin J. Brown, is the owner of Geographicus Rare Antique Maps (http: //www.geographicus.com), a generalist dealer in rare maps from all periods and at all value points. Kevin attended Bennington College, in Vermont, where he majored in "Pilgrimage." Bennington fosters a "learn by doing" approach to academics, and Kevin has translated this philosophy to the map trade. He approaches his study of early cartography from a hands-on perspective, supplementing historical knowledge and the study of primary source material with visceral experience. To better understand the experience of early travelers and mapmakers in the Amazon, for example, he spent a month with indigenous guides bushwhacking through the primary rainforests of the Guyana Shield, learning in the process traditional jungle survival techniques. Or, to better understand the experience of early merchants in Europe, he trekked the ancient Roman road system through France and Spain, eschewing all modern comforts and transport, for several months. He has also studied early engraving, printing, and drafting techniques. While Kevin understands that these adventures and studies will not turn him into a jungle survivalist, a medieval merchant, or master etcher, he believes that a better understanding the challenges that early surveyors, mapmakers, and travelers would have faced, on a multifaceted personal level, contributes to his ability to appreciate and relate to the early maps he deals in.