Topic Description: Maps and Mapmaking

"MAPS AND MAPMAKING" includes: all aspects of cartography; the production, import and export of maps and topographical views; terrestrial and celestial maps and globes; the commissioning, collecting and use of telescopes and navigational instruments; geographical exploration and the exchange of such information.

Some references in this category are cross-indexed under "NATURAL SCIENCES" (for example, those relevant to telescopes and navigational instruments.) Drawn maps, plans and topographical views are cross-indexed under "DRAWINGS". Printed maps are cross-referenced under "BOOKS AND PRINTING". Plans of fortresses and fortified territories are cross-indexed under "FORTIFICATIONS".

Mapmakers who are known by name are indexed as "ARTISTS". References to unnamed or otherwise obscure mapmakers ("il cosmografo spagnolo") are generally indexed under "MAP AND MAPMAKING", even when they appear in contexts not directly relevant to this activity ("abbiamo fatto la dote alla sorella del cosmografo.")

Stefano Buonsignori, Map of Florence, Piazza della Signoria, 1584

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