A Map in Time

Gorgeous! Isn't it?! This is a map of London 1827. I find these reproductions extraordinary.

Florence 1910

Naples

Paris

Stockholm

Venice 1910

The originals are from a collection owned by the well known antique dealer, Rudy van Thiel, Jr. His private collection. In 2009, he decided to share his beauties with the world. Exquisite reproductions are now being made. Here is how Mr. Van Thiel describes the process...

"I started collecting old coins and maps when I was twelve years young. Browsing flea markets, yard sales and local auctions was pretty normal in our family. By 2007 my bounty of maps had grown to several hundreds and we decided to add some of them to our collections.

We put a team together and started experimenting with how to create a replica that would reflect the authenticity and warmth of my originals. I also started hunting for maps that would fill in the gaps and cover almost all countries in the world as well as many provinces and states.

After more than a year of hard work, in the spring of 2009 we introduced The Map Collection.

Each of our hand made map reproductions is placed on canvas, a technique used in the old days to create a folding travel map. Each map comes in several sizes. Most frames are hand finished by our great team of antique restorers. After an order for one is placed, we start custom making that unique map."

I have shown just a small sample. His collection spans many continents, countries, and cities.

I love placing these in studies, dens, and family rooms. Placing a country of my clients' heritage or a special city has proven to be a wonderful personal touch.

Do you have a special place?