Land and Sea Monsters - woodblock engraved chart of mythical creatures, beasts & serpents from Sebastian Munster's "Cosmographia", 1544 art print poster canvas map gift

An iconic chart of Land and Sea monsters and beasts, both mythical creatures and real, published by Sebastian Munster in his "Cosmographia" in 1544. One of famous Elizabethan era 16th century hand-coloured woodblock prints.

Munster's plate of mythical creatures is taken from Olaus Magnus' Carta Marina of 1539 and includes abundant tusks, horns and twin-spouts. One vignette shows a galleon trying to outrun one monster by throwing their cargo overboard, while one sailor takes sight with a musket. Ortelius adapted many of the monsters for use on his map of Iceland in 1587. The Cosmographia by Sebastian Munster from 1544 is considered to be the earliest German language description of the world. It had numerous editions in different languages. The last German edition was published in 1628, long after his death. The Cosmographia was one of the most successful and popular books of the 16th century. It passed through 24 editions in 100 years. This success was due to the woodcuts made by the most prominent engravers. The "Cosmographia" of Sebastian Munster was most important in reviving geography in 16th-century Europe.

The Cosmographia by Sebastian Munster from 1544 is considered to be the earliest German language description of the world. It had numerous editions in different languages. The last German edition was published in 1628, long after his death. The Cosmographia was one of the most successful and popular books of the 16th century. It passed through 24 editions in 100 years. This success was due to the woodcuts of the most prominent engravers. The "Cosmographia" of Sebastian Munster was most important in reviving geography in 16th-century Europe.

This poster is a high quality "giclée" reproduction of a restored original, custom-printed on Standard Single-weight Matt Coated art paper 140gsm or  Heavyweight Matt Coated art paper 230gsm (more of a thin card density), or superb Epson Matt Canvas 320gsm, according to your choice. We use the latest UltraChromeHDX pigment inks which guarantee 60 years of colour  permanence (up to 200 years fade-proof for colour prints).  This poster is suitable for mounting and framing, as well as direct display on a wall.

This high-resolution, museum-grade fine art print is produced from a unique restored image. Printed on premium archival-quality art paper or canvas, it makes a striking addition to any interior as wall décor or a poster, and a memorable gift for lovers of antique and vintage maps, collectors of historic prints, historians, and explorers. Almost indistinguishable from the original Tudor period engraving, it adds character and interest to a study, library, or office wall. It also makes a thoughtful gift for all occasions, including Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter, and Father's or Mother's Day.