Nigeria Antique world maps HQ

The artwork presents a stylized cartographic representation of a region situated along a coastline, rendered in a palette dominated by ochre, green, and blue hues. The composition is framed by a decorative border featuring a heraldic shield centrally positioned, flanked by elaborate scrollwork.
Here we see a landscape depicted with considerable artistic license rather than strict topographical accuracy. A meandering river system dominates the central area, its course punctuated by settlements marked as Regno (kingdoms) and other place names written in an Italian script. The terrain is characterized by undulating hills and what appear to be desert regions indicated by the label “Deserto.” The artist has included small vignettes within the landscape: a lion prowling near a settlement, a camel traversing a desert expanse, and figures engaged in what might represent trade or labor activities.
The coastline itself is defined by a deep blue Mare Meridionale (Southern Sea), which extends to meet the horizon. The depiction of the sea lacks detail, serving primarily as a backdrop for the landmass. A small island is visible off the eastern coast, labeled “Isola del Principe” (Island of the Prince).
The central shield contains dense text in Italian, likely providing explanatory notes or historical context related to the depicted region. The script’s complexity suggests an attempt at conveying detailed information beyond simple geographical location.
Subtexts within this work appear to revolve around European perceptions and understanding of a distant land during its period of creation. The labeling in Italian indicates a European origin, suggesting that the map was intended for European audiences. The inclusion of animals like lions and camels reinforces stereotypical notions about the regions fauna. The depiction of kingdoms and settlements implies an interest in political organization and potential trade routes. The overall aesthetic – the combination of cartographic elements with decorative flourishes – suggests a blend of scientific inquiry and artistic embellishment, characteristic of early modern European mapmaking. The work functions not merely as a geographical record but also as a visual statement about the perceived exoticism and complexity of this distant territory.