Rare Old Map of Iceland & Faroe Islands by Fullarton, 1872: Reykjavik, Torshavn, Illustrations, Danish Possessions

The "Danish Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean" map, meticulously crafted by Archibald Fullarton & Co. in 1872, is a stunning testament to 19th-century cartography. This exquisite map not only delineates the political and physical features of Iceland and the Faroe Islands but also encapsulates the rich cultural and natural heritage of these regions. Fullarton & Co., renowned for their detailed and beautifully illustrated maps, have imbued this piece with vibrant color and intricate detail, making it a valuable artifact for any collector or history enthusiast.

This map provides a comprehensive view of Iceland, showcasing its diverse topography with a detailed list of mountains and their elevations. The map is surrounded by illustrations of local people in traditional attire, adding a cultural dimension that brings the map to life. The inclusion of these illustrations highlights the customs and daily life of the inhabitants, offering a glimpse into the 19th-century Icelandic society. Additionally, notable landmarks and natural phenomena, such as geysers and volcanic formations, are meticulously depicted, emphasizing the island's unique geological features.

The Faroe Islands are also prominently featured, with detailed cartographic elements that highlight the archipelago's rugged terrain and scattered settlements. The map captures the essence of the Faroe Islands' natural beauty, with illustrations of native animals and dramatic landscapes. The surrounding waters of the North Atlantic Ocean are clearly marked, providing context to the islands' geographical isolation and maritime significance. This map serves as a historical record of the Faroe Islands during a time when they were under Danish rule, reflecting the political landscape of the era.

Archibald Fullarton & Co. were pioneers in the field of cartography, known for their precision and artistry. Their maps were not merely tools for navigation but works of art that conveyed a wealth of information about the regions they depicted. This map of the Danish Islands is a prime example of their craftsmanship, combining scientific accuracy with aesthetic appeal. The detailed illustrations and comprehensive geographical data make it an invaluable resource for understanding the historical and cultural context of the North Atlantic islands.

In addition to its geographical and cultural significance, this map holds historical importance as it documents a period of significant change and development in the North Atlantic region. The arrival of the first Southern Pacific railroads in 1881 and the mention of El Paso's notorious past in the 1880s add layers of historical context that enrich the map's narrative. This map is not just a representation of physical landscapes but a chronicle of the human stories and historical events that shaped these islands, making it a cherished piece for any discerning collector.

Cities and towns on this map

• Iceland:
• Reykjavik
• Akureyri
• Seydisfjordur
• Faroe Islands:
• Torshavn

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Inset maps:
• Detailed maps of Iceland and the Faroe Islands.
• Illustrations:
• Local people in traditional attire.
• Various animals native to the regions.
• Impressive sights and landmarks.
• Landmarks:
• Notable landmarks in Iceland and the Faroe Islands.
• Bodies of water:
• North Atlantic Ocean.
• Mountains:
• List of mountains in Iceland with their elevations.

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Danish Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean
• When the map was made: 1872
• Mapmaker or publisher: Archibald Fullarton & Co.
• Interesting context about the mapmaker: Archibald Fullarton & Co. was known for producing detailed and well-illustrated maps during the 19th century.
• Topics and themes shown on the map:
• Political and physical features of Danish Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean.
• Illustrations of local people, animals, and notable landmarks.
• Elevations of mountains in Iceland.
• Countries and regions shown on the map:
• Iceland
• Faroe Islands
• Context about the design or style of the map:
• Full-color illustrations and detailed cartographic elements.
• Surrounding illustrations depicting cultural and natural aspects of the regions.
• Historical significance or context of the map:
• Provides a historical view of the Danish territories in the North Atlantic during the 19th century.
• Highlights the geographical and cultural aspects of Iceland and the Faroe Islands during that period.

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 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) 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.