Johann Baptist Homann – Map of the world, 1716

This is a 1716 world map by Johann Baptist Homann, titled PLANIGLOBII TERRESTRIS CUM UTRQ HEMISPHARIO CALESTI REPRASENTATIO, meaning Representation of the Terrestrial Globe with Both Celestial Hemispheres.

What I see:

The central focus is a world map projected onto two hemispheres, displaying the continents of the Earth. The Americas are shown on the left hemisphere, and Africa, Europe, and Asia are on the right. Australia is depicted as a large southern landmass. The oceans are filled with sea monsters and ships, typical of cartographic illustrations of the era.

Surrounding the main map are several celestial charts. The top two circular insets show the northern and southern celestial hemispheres, complete with constellations represented by mythological figures and astronomical diagrams.

The corners of the map are adorned with allegorical figures. In the top left, putti ride on clouds and celestial bodies, with the moon and stars visible in a night sky. In the top right, more putti are depicted in a sunlit sky, possibly representing daytime or divine presence. The lower sections of the map feature vignettes of landscapes and seascapes, with figures and natural elements, adding to the decorative and informative nature of the map.

There are extensive Latin inscriptions, including the title, credits to mapmakers, and likely geographical or astronomical information. The map is richly colored, with continents in green, brown, and red, and oceans in blue. The overall aesthetic is ornate and detailed, characteristic of Baroque-era cartography.

Subtexts:

• The Enlightenment and Exploration: Created during the Age of Enlightenment, this map reflects a period of intense scientific inquiry, exploration, and a growing understanding of the world and the cosmos. The detailed depiction of both terrestrial and celestial realms signifies a desire to map and comprehend the universe in its entirety.
• Geopolitical Ambition and Knowledge: By showcasing known lands and waters, the map serves not only as a geographical tool but also as a statement of knowledge and, implicitly, of the expanding influence of European powers who commissioned and produced such maps. The detail, even in areas less explored (like parts of Australia), indicates a drive to fill in the blanks.
• The Interconnectedness of Earth and Sky: The juxtaposition of terrestrial and celestial maps emphasizes the belief in a divinely ordered and interconnected universe, where the movements of the stars and planets were seen as influencing earthly affairs. The allegorical figures in the corners further enhance this connection, bridging the gap between the human world and the celestial sphere.
• Artistry and Cartography as Status: Maps like this were not just functional; they were also significant works of art and status symbols, displayed in the homes of the wealthy and educated. The elaborate decoration, including mythological figures and detailed engravings, served to impress and convey sophistication and mastery of both the physical world and abstract knowledge.
• A Snapshot of Worldview: The map represents the cartographic and cosmological understanding of the early 18th century. It shows which lands were known, their perceived shapes, and the existing understanding of the night sky, offering a valuable insight into the intellectual landscape of the time.