Map of West Africa Antique world maps HQ

The artwork presents a cartographic representation of a region in Western Africa, rendered with a distinct aesthetic sensibility characteristic of early modern European mapmaking. The composition is dominated by a stylized depiction of the landmass, extending from what appears to be the Atlantic Ocean on the left to an undefined expanse of water at the bottom. A significant portion of the upper area is designated Libia interiore, suggesting an understanding of the region as part of a larger North African territory.
The artist employed a palette of muted earth tones – ochres, yellows, and browns – to depict the terrain, creating a sense of aridness and vastness. The landscape isnt presented with topographical accuracy; rather, it is stylized, with undulating lines suggesting hills or mountains. Rivers are indicated by winding blue lines, though their courses seem more decorative than precise.
Scattered across the landmass are illustrations of animals – a lion in the northeast, an elephant near the coast, and other unidentified creatures – which serve as visual markers for specific locations or regions. These depictions contribute to a sense of exoticism and reinforce European perceptions of Africa as a place of wildness and untamed nature.
The coastal areas are more detailed, with representations of settlements and fortifications. The presence of these structures suggests an awareness of trade routes and potential points of contact between Europeans and the inhabitants of the region. Labels in what appears to be Latin or Italian identify various kingdoms, cities, and geographical features. These labels provide a glimpse into the European understanding – and likely misinterpretations – of the political landscape and local names.
A decorative cartouche occupies the lower left corner. It is intricately designed with ornate borders and contains text that likely provides explanatory notes about the maps creation or purpose. The surrounding ocean areas are adorned with depictions of sea monsters, a common feature in early maps intended to convey the unknown dangers of navigation.
The overall impression conveyed by this work is one of European exploration and knowledge-making. It’s not merely a geographical representation but also a projection of European perspectives onto an unfamiliar land. The artistic choices – the stylized landscape, the inclusion of exotic animals, and the decorative elements – all contribute to constructing a narrative about Africa that served to justify colonial ambitions and reinforce European cultural superiority.