Rare Old Map of the Kingdom of Denmark by Speed, 1626: Copenhagen, Elsinore, Hamburg, Baltic Sea

The "Kingdome of Denmarke" map, crafted by the esteemed cartographer John Speed in 1627, is a remarkable historical artifact that offers a glimpse into the political and cultural landscape of early 17th-century Denmark. This map is not merely a geographical representation; it is a work of art that captures the essence of the period through its detailed illustrations and decorative elements. The side panels adorned with costumed figures and the vignettes of notable places such as Copenhagen, Elsinore, Hamburg, and Schleswig add a rich cultural context, making this map a treasure trove of historical information.

John Speed, an illustrious English cartographer and historian, is renowned for his meticulously detailed and aesthetically pleasing maps. His works are celebrated for their artistic quality and historical accuracy, and the "Kingdome of Denmarke" is no exception. Speed's maps were often created to provide a comprehensive view of the regions they depicted, combining geographical detail with cultural and political insights. This map of Denmark is a testament to Speed's skill and dedication to his craft, reflecting the intricate political boundaries and the cultural milieu of the time.

The map vividly portrays the Kingdom of Denmark, along with parts of Germany and Norway, highlighting the political boundaries and geographical features of the region. The German Ocean (North Sea), the Baltic Sea, and the East Sea are prominently depicted, providing a clear understanding of Denmark's maritime borders. The inclusion of sailing ships and a decorative compass rose adds a touch of nautical charm, emphasizing Denmark's historical significance as a seafaring nation. The detailed representation of the coastline and islands further enhances the map's geographical accuracy.

One of the most striking features of this map is the depiction of notable landmarks and cities. Copenhagen, Elsinore, Hamburg, and Schleswig are illustrated with remarkable detail, offering a glimpse into the urban centers of the time. These cities were not only political and economic hubs but also cultural centers that played a significant role in shaping the history of the region. The vignettes above the map provide a visual tour of these important locations, adding depth and context to the geographical information presented.

The design and style of the "Kingdome of Denmarke" map are quintessentially 17th century, characterized by its elaborate decorations and intricate details. The side panels featuring costumed figures provide a fascinating insight into the attire and social customs of the period. This map is more than just a geographical document; it is a cultural artifact that captures the essence of a bygone era. Its historical significance lies not only in its depiction of Denmark's geography but also in its portrayal of the cultural and political landscape of the time, making it a valuable addition to any collection of historical maps.

Cities and towns on this map

• Denmark:
• Copenhagen
• Elsinore
• Germany:
• Hamburg
• Schleswig

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustrations:
• Costumed figures in side panels
• Vignettes of notable places above the map
• Landmarks:
• Copenhagen
• Elsinore
• Hamburg
• Schleswig
• Bodies of water:
• The German Ocean (North Sea)
• The Bal (Baltic Sea)
• The East Sea
• Other notable features:
• Decorative compass rose
• Sailing ships

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: The Kingdome of Denmarke
• When the map was made: 1626
• Mapmaker or publisher:
• The map was created by John Speed in 1627.
• John Speed was a notable English cartographer and historian, known for his detailed and decorative maps.
• Topics and themes shown on the map:
• The map is both a political and physical map, showing the geographical features and political boundaries of the Kingdom of Denmark.
• The map also emphasizes cultural aspects by including costumed figures and notable landmarks.
• Countries and regions shown on the map:
• Denmark
• Parts of Germany and Norway
• Design or style of the map:
• The map features detailed illustrations and decorative elements, typical of 17th-century cartography.
• Side panels and top vignettes add cultural and historical context.
• Historical significance or context:
• This map provides a historical snapshot of Denmark in the early 17th century, reflecting the political and cultural landscape of the time.
• John Speed's maps are considered significant for their artistic quality and historical detail.

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 90in (230cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) 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.