"Map of the World on a Hemisphere Projection" is a historic map that was created in 1775 by Matthäus Albrecht Lotter, a prominent German mapmaker and publisher of the 18th century. The map is notable for its unique depiction of the world on a hemispheric projection.
In Lotter's map, the world is divided into two hemispheres, with the prime meridian passing through the continent of Africa. The map presents a view of the world from a polar perspective, with the North Pole located at the center and the southern hemisphere surrounding it. The continents are displayed as hemispheric sections, with Europe, Asia, and North America occupying the upper hemisphere and Africa, South America, and Australia in the lower hemisphere.
Lotter's map showcases various geographical features, including mountain ranges, rivers, and lakes, as well as major cities and towns. It also includes decorative elements such as ornate cartouches, elaborate compass roses, and illustrations of ships sailing in the oceans. The map is typically rich in intricate details and vibrant colors, reflecting the cartographic style of the time.
During the 18th century, maps like the Lotter Map of the World on a Hemisphere Projection were highly sought after for their aesthetic appeal and the wealth of geographic information they provided. They served as valuable tools for explorers, merchants, and scholars, helping to shape and expand knowledge about the world.
Matthäus Albrecht Lotter (1741-1810) was a German mapmaker, engraver, and publisher who was active during the 18th century. He hailed from the prominent Lotter family of Nuremberg, renowned for their contributions to cartography.
Lotter inherited the map publishing business from his father, Tobias Conrad Lotter, who was also a well-known cartographer. He took over the family business after his father's death in 1777 and continued producing maps and atlases under his own name.
Lotter's works encompassed a wide range of cartographic materials, including world maps, celestial charts, city plans, and regional maps. He was known for his decorative and artistic map designs, often featuring elaborate title cartouches, ornate compass roses, and other embellishments. Lotter's maps were highly regarded for their accuracy and attention to detail, reflecting the advancements in geographic knowledge during the 18th century.
In addition to his individual map publications, Lotter collaborated with other renowned cartographers and publishers of his time. He frequently worked with notable figures such as Johann Matthias Hase and Johann Georg Schreiber, combining their expertise to create maps of exceptional quality.
Matthäus Albrecht Lotter's maps were widely distributed and sought after by collectors, scholars, and geographers of the time. Today, his works are considered valuable historical artifacts, offering insights into the cartographic techniques and knowledge of the era.
More maps of Matthäus Albrecht Lotter
