Map Analysis - Gutiérrez's Map Of Americae (1562)

In this map by Diego Gutiérrez in 1562 map texture becomes the representation of ocean waves. The movement of the water makes it a great piece of art. The waves are designed to relate to the actual height of waves encountered, with the wave action reducing along the coast of South America and the Gulf of Mexico.

Here are some close-ups...

Poseidon with hippocampus is pulling a king across the ocean. Is this King Philip II?

Can somebody tell me what a gorilla is doing in the middle of the ocean?

What did the early explorers think about Brazil? See for yourself!

Also, notice the hand lettering requiring lines to keep text straight and even.

Notice how the waves change as they approach the Brazilian coast, demonstrating a knowledge of oceanography. To decorate maps effectively often requires a certain knowledge of physical geography with design skills.

This is a great decorative map with lots of ornamentation and embellishment to fill the map.

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