Rare Old Cloverleaf World Map with Jerusalem in the Middle by Bunting, 1582

Heinrich Bunting's "Die gantze Welt in einem Kleberblat" is a captivating masterpiece from 1582, illustrating the world through a unique theological lens. Bunting, a renowned theological commentator from Hanover, crafted this map as part of his magnum opus, Itinerarium Sacrae Scriptura. This map presents the world in a cloverleaf design, symbolizing the coat of arms of Hanover, Bunting's beloved homeland. At its heart lies Jerusalem, reflecting the Holy Land-centric perspective that was prevalent in medieval cartography. This imaginative design not only showcases geographical exploration but also intertwines it with religious themes, offering a glimpse into the worldview of the 16th century.

The map's cloverleaf structure elegantly encircles the continents of Europe, Africa, and Asia, while regions like England, Scandinavia, and America are depicted outside these primary circles. This design choice emphasizes the centrality of the Holy Land, following the T-O model commonly used in medieval maps. Bunting's work stands out for its innovative approach, merging theological insights with geographical representation, making it a significant artifact from the era of exploration. Each continent is intricately detailed, reflecting the geographical knowledge and religious significance attributed to these lands during Bunting's time.

In addition to its thematic depth, the map is adorned with fantastical elements that captivate the imagination. The ocean spaces are embellished with sea monsters, mermaids, and a grand sailing ship, adding a sense of wonder and adventure to the scientific endeavor of cartography. These artistic flourishes highlight the blend of myth and reality that characterized the period's understanding of the world. The map's artistic style and decorative elements make it not only a geographical document but also a work of art that invites viewers to explore the unknown.

Bunting's map is more than a geographical representation; it is a reflection of the cultural and religious milieu of the 16th century. The map's intricate details and thematic focus on the Holy Land offer insight into the theological perspectives that influenced cartography during this period. By placing Jerusalem at the center, Bunting emphasizes the spiritual significance of the city, aligning with the religious narratives of his time. This approach underscores the map's dual role as both a navigational tool and a theological statement.

The historical significance of "Die gantze Welt in einem Kleberblat" lies in its innovative cartographic design and its fusion of religious and geographical themes. As a sought-after piece among collectors and historians, it represents a pivotal moment in the history of map-making. Bunting's work not only captures the geographical knowledge of his era but also reflects the broader cultural and theological currents that shaped the understanding of the world. This map is a testament to the enduring legacy of Bunting's vision, offering a window into the past that continues to inspire and intrigue.

Countries and regions on this map

• Europe:
• England, France, Saxony, Germany, Poland, Greece, Turkey, Rome, Bohemia
• Africa:
• Egypt, Libya, Alexandria
• Asia:
• Armenia, Mesopotamia, Syria, Arabia, Persia, Chaldea
• Other Regions:
• America (Die Neue Welt), Scandinavia

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustrations:
• A large sailing ship depicted in the ocean.
• Sea monsters and mermaids embellishing the water spaces.
• Bodies of Water:
• Das grosse Mittelmeer (The Great Mediterranean Sea)
• Das Rote Meer (The Red Sea)
• Historical Notes/Annotations:
• Jerusalem is prominently marked at the center.
• Other Features:
• Decorative elements such as waves in the ocean.

Historical and design context

• Creation Date: 1582
• Mapmaker/Publisher: Heinrich Bunting, a theological commentator from Hanover
• Themes and Topics:
• Holy Land-centric perspective with Jerusalem at the center, following the T-O model of medieval map-making.
• The map is designed in the shape of a cloverleaf, representing Europe, Africa, and Asia.
• Design and Style:
• Styled as a cloverleaf, symbolizing the coat of arms of Hanover.
• Includes fantastical elements like sea monsters, mermaids, and a large sailing ship.
• Historical Significance:
• Represents innovative cartography of the 16th century.
• Combines theological themes with geographical exploration.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.