Simple and Serene Living: vintage maps

vintage maps

I love vintage maps. They tell a history that can not be shared in any other way, and they are so beautiful. The study and practice of making maps is called cartography. It is not known exactly when map making began, but we do know that the ancient Greeks and Romans began the practice of cartography as early as the 6th century BC.

The oldest maps were carved into clay tablets.

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Wow, I would love to see some of those.

Today, vintage and antique maps are very popular for home decor and for repurposing.

They make beautiful wall paper.

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Some more ideas for repurposing vintage maps.

from the shop of cottonbirddesigns

so lovely when framed and grouped on a wall.

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a pretty way to spruce up a lampshade

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or an old metal trash can.

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Maps can give new life to an old piece of furniture.

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I can just see all those ideas spinning around in your head right now and if you need some vintage maps, I am currently adding them to Gossamer Memories. I have a few listed now, but there will be a lot more coming in the next few days. Stop by for a visit.

1923 map

Linking up this weekend with

Ricki TreleavenOctober 7, 2011 at 10:37 AM
I love it when folks use maps in their decor. I saw a hall bathroom completely wallpapered in colorful maps (the bath was primarily used by children). It was so pretty!!!

Great post!
Betsy@My Salvaged TreasuresOctober 7, 2011 at 8:08 PM
Thank you so much for the history and the gorgeous inspiration.
Korrie@RedHenHomeOctober 7, 2011 at 10:01 PM
What beautiful inspiration photos! I love old maps.
Katie @ Wildwood CreekOctober 7, 2011 at 10:52 PM
Love your blog! I'm your newest follower.
AnonymousOctober 8, 2011 at 11:18 PM
I love all the maps! I've been thinking of doing a project with maps, now I'm thinking a little harder!
andrea@townandprairieOctober 9, 2011 at 9:07 PM
I know, aren't maps hot? Even as a kid I loved maps... I would read our atlas for hours. We never went anywhere, but I sure dreamed I did. andrea@townandprairie
A Cozy Cottage in the CityOctober 10, 2011 at 4:03 AM
Hi Laura,

I love these little inspirations from the use of vintage maps - the lampshades especially! :) And thank you for taking the time to stop by my page & leaving a kind comment - it is greatly appreciated. :) I hope you had a wonderful weekend. Take care and enjoy your new week!

Best,
Jessie
Debra@CommonGroundOctober 13, 2011 at 1:19 PM
oooh, great post, love all that wonderful inspiration! thanks so much for sharing it at VIF!! xo