Who painted Map of the World?

Map of the World was painted by Hans Sporer in 1480.

Where can I see Map of the World?

Map of the World is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Map of the World?

Map of the World is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Map of the World

Hans Sporer , 1480

Map of the World is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hans Sporer. It dates from 1480 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Hans Sporer's Map of the World, circa 1480, is a hand-colored woodcut print on square paper, framed by a red border. The pre-Columbian map depicts known landmasses in light green and yellow, with place names, simplified topographical features, and faded yet discernible colors.

Subject & Meaning

The map illustrates the late 15th-century understanding of global geography, omitting the Americas, which had not yet been discovered. It reflects the era's cartographic knowledge and the transition from medieval to early modern worldviews.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the map's uneven edges and bold lines characteristic of the medium are evident. The hand-coloring in green, yellow, and ochre, along with antiquated typography, aligns with late Gothic stylistic influences.

History & Provenance

Created around 1480 by Hans Sporer, the map's provenance is not detailed here, though its production reflects the burgeoning print culture of late medieval Europe.

Context

This work contextualizes the geographical awareness of the pre-Columbian era, highlighting the limitations and understandings of the time. It also showcases the role of woodcuts in disseminating knowledge during the early days of printmaking.

Legacy

While not altering cartographic history, the map contributes to the historical record of evolving global awareness and the technical development of printmaking in the late 15th century.