the privy gallery

magnificent maps
the british library, london
april 30 – september 19, 2010

the british library in london is currently displaying ‘magnificent maps’, an exhibition that looks at
the social, political and historical context of maps. the exhibit was designed by universal design studio,
who was awarded the bid through a design competition. the show features a number of extremely rare
maps, some of which have never been exhibited before, displayed in a series of symbolic architectural
installations. each space has its own individual theme and are all linked together with a common
threshold graphic, which frames the entry into the next room. the rooms’ themes are based on curatorial
narratives that showcase different motives for creating maps beyond geographical representation.
each threshold also introduces the visitor to the upcoming room, providing them with essential
information and explanations.

http://www.bl.uk
http://www.universaldesignstudio.com


frau mauro mappa mundi. copy of a 15th century original.
medieval circular planisphere of the (world map) made by venetian monk fra mauro. it is a typical portolan map with the south
at the top. the original has not survived the centuries and the one on show is an antique exact copy made by frazer in 1804.


the audience chamber threshold


the bedchamber threshold


 
‘the island’ by stephen walter, 2006
contemporary map of london


‘the island’ (detail) by stephen walter, 2006


maps for the masses


forma romae urbis. c. 200 AD.
fragment from a very large marble map of rome created under the emperor septimius severus and showed the floor plans of every
major bath, temple and apartment in central rome. it was originally mounted on the external wall of the temple of peace but was
later destroyed in the middle ages.


the merchant's house