Scientific Interest
Mapmakers during the 17th and 18th centuries often included new scientific theories and other ideas in maps.
To emphasize the accuracy of their maps, cartographers gradually began replacing the allegorical illustrations with more technical and logical information. The material included on these maps provides insight into what people understood about different scientific disciplines at the time, especially regarding astronomy and geography.
Planisphærium Terrestre, Sive Terrarum Orbis... [The Terrestrial Plane, or of the Entire Earth]
Carel Allard, creator1696 MSM 1---0009This map is considered one of the first to dispense with elaborate allegorical illustrations in favor of a more scientific appearance. Instead, the borders are surrounded by multiple views of different portions of the globe. The close affiliation between science and mapmaking would give maps an air of authority, making them important tools in affirming power.
Planiglobii Terrestris Cum Utroq Hemisphærio Cælesti Generalis…, [General Representation of the Planar Projection of Earth with both Celestial Hemispheres...]
Johann Baptist Homann, creatorca. 1720 MSM 1---0005In addition to showing terrestrial forms, this map plots out well known constellations, reflecting ongoing interests in astronomy and astrology. Keeping up with new discoveries, the map also features an incomplete depiction of Australia, and an unusual depiction of North America’s northwestern coast.
Nova & Accuratissima Totius Terrarum Orbis Tabula Nautica… [New and Extremely Accurate Nautical Chart of the entire Earth]
Edmund Halley, creator1700 MSM 1- 0403Astronomer Edmund Halley (1656-1742) is best remembered today for identifying the comet that bears his name. He also worked in cartography, producing maps such as this, the first world map to show isogonals. This feature was considered of prime importance for determining longitude.
The World in Hemispheres with Comparative Views…
George H. Swanston, creator1862 MSM 1---0678An extensive comparative illustration of mountain peaks is featured on this map.. These kinds of diagrams became popular on maps during the 19th century, and reflect progressive efforts to understand the world’s exceptional natural features through measurements and other quantitative information.
The World
William C. Woodbridge, creator1843 MSM 1---0737Like some of the other examples, this map uses quantitative data to comprehend the world’s natural features. In this instance, the map represents the lengths of major lakes and river systems throughout the globe.
