You might be wondering what this is and why it is important? Well, simply put, Mappa Mundi is Latin for “map of the world.” Is used in reference to European maps of the world produced during medieval times. Some of them are massive, elaborate, very ornate wall maps, while others are very rudimentary schematic maps […]
Tag Archives: historical map
Give Them The World This Christmas
Why not give that special person in your life the world this Christmas season? That’s right, with the holidays practically knocking at your door, it’s time to start thinking of the perfect gift for that special someone. Our world map, Nova Totius, will fit the bill nicely. It is classic, timeless, and will make a […]
Jean Lafitte, Privateer or Pirate-er?
So what is the difference between being a pirate or a privateer? Well, if you are Jean Lafitte, the difference is merely in pronunciation. We say potAYto, he says potAHto. Let’s unpack this a bit as we explore the fascinating life of one of history’s most successful pirates. His story will definitely give you something […]
Hand Painted Historical Maps are the New Black for Western Decor
Lisa Middleton knows a thing or two about western maps. Her company, Great River Arts, specializes in producing custom maps. Since its inception, she has created hundreds, if not thousands, of pieces for clients scattered across the globe. Her exclusive client list grows each year, because of the quality of her work. That quality has […]
Sea Dragon Secrets on Any Antique Map
Last week we talked a bit about dragons and maps. We discussed their fantastical depiction, their evolution through time and what they might have been based on. However, there are other reasons for their existence, that unless you knew better, would remain secret. Most people though it was simply due to the fact that people […]
Great River Arts Has a Secret
So if you snoop around Great River Arts long enough, you are bound to come across a section on our website called “The Vault.” A look at the maps in this section can be a bit puzzling. There are no custom maps. There are no hand painted maps. There is not an antique map reproduction […]
5 Places in Your Home That Need a Custom Historical Map
Today we are going to take a look at the best locations in your home for you to display your custom historical map. Some of these might surprise you. But I promise there is a method to the madness so hang in there. If you follow the basic premise that historical maps are meant to […]
Prester John
What do you do during the Holy Crusade when your kingdom is threatened by potential Muslim invasion? You call upon the help of a mythical Christian priest/king of course. That was the case in the 1100s. When relations got tense, and the Turks threatened to invade the Crusader Kingdoms under the leadership of Imad ad-din […]
Audrey Hepburn Proves a Silk Scarf is the Perfect Gift for any Woman!
At Great River Arts, we are known for maps. We make beautiful, custom, hand painted historical maps featuring locations around the globe. We also produce custom maps of various sizes, according to the order placed. However, now we also produce custom silk scarves. That’s right, the same beautiful maps and locations featured on Great River […]
3 Reasons Custom designed Maps are the Best Gift Ever!
Since we are traveling next week to be part of the Western Design Conference in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and featuring our great new Jackson Wyoming custom map I thought a conversation about the gift “value” of custom maps would be in order. Once you see the value, you will see why custom maps are the […]
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