Geographia Ltd.
51 x 76 cm
This folding, pocket map of pre-World War II London showcases the central neighbourhoods, focusing particularly on major landmarks and points of interest around the city. Its pictorial style was inspired by early 20th century Parisian maps, with its three-dimensional, outlined depictions of individual buildings and landmarks, bold labels, and use of bright colours. This artistic style gives the city depth and density of its urban space. Major roads are highlighted in white and recreational and public spaces, such as squares, cemeteries, and parks are labelled in bold black letters and coloured a vivid green.
The map covers the area from Ravenscourt Park and Hammersmith in the west, Primrose Hill in the north, Whitechapel Road and the London Docks in the east, and Stockwell to the south. It also includes three smaller inset maps in the corners showing the West End's theatres and cinemas in greater detail along with a simplified version of Harry Beck's iconic London Underground map. A cartouche in the upper right corner reads, ‘Homeland, Pictorial Plan of London.’
Geographia Ltd was a London cartographic publisher founded by Alexander Gross in 1911, acquired by Collins Bartholomew in 1985. It was known for producing folding pocket maps and globes.
Printed colour. [LDN7393]