The Art and History of Map and Globe Making

At Wendy Gold Studios, we are obsessed with maps and globes, so we wanted to take a deep dive into the fascinating history of these timeless tools of exploration. The craft of map and globe making has evolved over thousands of years, from simple, functional drawings to stunning, artistic representations of our world. 

The history of map and globe making spans thousands of years, driven by humanity's need to explore and understand the world. Early maps, like those created by the Babylonians around 2300 B.C., were simple, functional clay tablets used for trade navigation. The Greeks, especially Claudius Ptolemy in the 2nd century A.D., revolutionized cartography by introducing mathematical principles, including latitude and longitude.

During the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, maps and globes became essential tools for navigators. Martin Behaim’s 1492 terrestrial globe exemplifies the growing precision of the era. As explorers charted new territories, maps evolved into more complete and accurate depictions of the world.

Advances in printing, science, and later, satellite technology, continued to refine cartography into the modern age. Today, maps and globes serve both functional and artistic purposes, inspiring wonder and curiosity.

We honor this rich tradition by transforming vintage maps and globes into handcrafted, eco-friendly artworks. Our creations celebrate history, exploration, and personal journeys, blending past and present to turn geography into a canvas for storytelling.

Whether celebrating a milestone or sparking curiosity, our handcrafted maps and globes are more than just art—they’re a window to the world’s endless possibilities.