Piri Reis Map on fine Amalfi paper

This splendid map was discovered in Istanbul in 1929, during the refurbishment excavations of a library. It is a cartographic document created by the Turkish captain Piri Reis: he began drawing this map in 1511, probably completing it in 1513. In 1517 he presented it to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, who rewarded him with a promotion to admiral.

It is part of a larger document, representing half or perhaps a third of its original extent. It depicts a portion of the Atlantic Ocean, the coasts of Europe, Africa, the eastern side of South America, and Antarctica. Rivers, mountains, and animals belonging to different places are illustrated.

Its analysis has been the subject of heated debates: the incredible mystery of this map concerns the depiction of the northern coast of Antarctica, which, however, was only discovered in 1820 by the Russian expedition of Lazarev and Bellingshausen. Not only that: in Piri Reis's map, Antarctica is depicted without ice, a situation that, according to experts, dates back over 6000 years ago.

Furthermore, a phrase, written in the margin of the sheet in Ottoman Turkish, is very important. In a passage speaking of the American continent, it literally reads: «These coasts are called the coast of Antilya. They were discovered in the year 896 of the Arab era. But it is said that an infidel from Genoa named Columbus discovered these places.» This would seem to confirm that Christopher Columbus's origins were Genoese and not Spanish.

Possessing this incredible map means preserving a document of inestimable historical value: a work of art that testifies not only to the technical capabilities and geographical knowledge of its creator but also to his vision of the world, rich in curiosity and wonder, enveloped by a profound sense of mystery.

Unique quality material

Print on handmade Amalfi paper
Sheet size: 40 x 30 cm
With frame: 43 x 33 cm
Material: artwork printed on very fine handmade Amalfi paper with deckled edges
Frame: Light brown, made of beech wood and handmade wood pulp