A special exhibition introducing Western antique maps from the perspectives of decoration and printing technology has opened at the Zenrin Museum in Kitakyushu. Approximately 21 maps and books from the 16th to 19th centuries are on display, shedding light on the worldview of the time and the intentions of their creators.
The special exhibition “Maps That Captivate: Old Maps × Decoration × Printing” has opened at the Zenrin Museum in Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu. The exhibition features 21 Western maps and related books, mainly from the 16th to 19th centuries.
The works are organized around decorative elements on maps and innovations in printing technology, introducing how maps have enhanced their expressive power. The exhibits include heraldic designs in the margins and decorative page layouts.
Visitors can view the works from the perspective of interpreting the worldview of the time and the intentions of their creators. The exhibition traces the cultural background and development of printing technology alongside the maps.
This article outlines the exhibition and highlights its main features.