Historic Map : Thomson Map of Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, Sweden), 1814, Vintage Wall Art

This fascinating hand colored 1814 map depicts Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. Modern day Finland, though included, was then part of the Kingdom of Sweden. Relief is shown by hachure with towns, cities, and major topographical features identified. The legendary and semi-mythical whirlpool known as the Maelstrom in northwestern Norway is noted. This legendary whirlpool was an inspiration for Edgar Allen Poe's classic tale ‘Descent into the Maelstrom'. In reality, it is a periodic and powerful current cause by tidal variation in the region. At this time in history, Scandinavia was in the midst of a prolonged period of peace and prosperity that led to a cultural and population boost.

The whole is beautifully engraved in the minimalist English style pioneered in the early part of the 19th century. Thomson maps are known for their stunning color, awe-inspiring size, and magnificent detail. Thomson's work, including this map, represents some of the finest cartographic art of the 19th century. This map was prepared by John Thomson for inclusion in the 1814 edition of Thomson's New General Atlas.