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Antique map of Brecknockshire, Wales by Creighton & Walker, c.1831–1840
Antique map of Brecknockshire, Wales by Creighton & Walker, c.1831–1840

Antique map of Brecknockshire, Wales by Creighton & Walker, c.1831–1840

Located in Langweer, NL

Minor toning at the edges consistent with age, but the image area is clean and well-preserved. Framing tips: This map would display best in a simple dark wood or black frame with a ...

Category

1830s British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

1857 Map of Southern South America – Argentina, Chile, Rio de Janeiro
1857 Map of Southern South America – Argentina, Chile, Rio de Janeiro

1857 Map of Southern South America – Argentina, Chile, Rio de Janeiro

Located in Langweer, NL

Strong print quality and original hand-coloring remain crisp and clear. Framing suggestions: This map would look excellent in a simple black or dark wooden frame with a soft off-whi...

Category

Mid-19th Century German Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of British South Africa – Colonial Territories & Railways, c.1920s
Antique Map of British South Africa – Colonial Territories & Railways, c.1920s

Antique Map of British South Africa – Colonial Territories & Railways, c.1920s

Located in Langweer, NL

For a more vintage look, consider a teak or mahogany frame with a slightly warm-toned mount to complement the map’s aged paper.

Category

Early 20th Century English Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Blaeu Paraguay Map, Rio de la Plata, Antique Engraving, South America 1642
Blaeu Paraguay Map, Rio de la Plata, Antique Engraving, South America 1642

Blaeu Paraguay Map, Rio de la Plata, Antique Engraving, South America 1642

Located in Langweer, NL

A refined and highly collectible map, ideal for a sophisticated interior, especially when framed in a museum-quality presentation or combined with other Blaeu maps of the Americas.

Category

Mid-17th Century Dutch Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of Scotland with Counties and Islands – Black’s Atlas, 1884
Antique Map of Scotland with Counties and Islands – Black’s Atlas, 1884

Antique Map of Scotland with Counties and Islands – Black’s Atlas, 1884

Located in Langweer, NL

No tears or major blemishes. Framing tips: This map is especially attractive when displayed in an archival mat of soft ivory or light cream to highlight the pastel county colors.

Category

1880s Scottish Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of Tonkin and Hainan Island – 18th Century French Engraving
Antique Map of Tonkin and Hainan Island – 18th Century French Engraving

Antique Map of Tonkin and Hainan Island – 18th Century French Engraving

Located in Langweer, NL

No significant tears or losses. Framing tips: This map would look excellent framed in a dark wooden or black frame to contrast with the pale paper, with a cream or light ivory mount...

Category

Late 18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique South Africa Map Blaeu c.1642 – Cape of Good Hope, Ships
Antique South Africa Map Blaeu c.1642 – Cape of Good Hope, Ships

Antique South Africa Map Blaeu c.1642 – Cape of Good Hope, Ships

Located in Langweer, NL

A well-preserved and attractive impression. Framing tips: This map displays beautifully in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory or museum-white mat.

Category

Mid-17th Century Dutch Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Ottoman Empire Asia Map, Turquie d’Asie by La Porte, Paris, 1779
Ottoman Empire Asia Map, Turquie d’Asie by La Porte, Paris, 1779

Ottoman Empire Asia Map, Turquie d’Asie by La Porte, Paris, 1779

Located in Langweer, NL

Ottoman Empire Asia Map, Turquie d’Asie by La Porte, Paris, 1779 This elegant late-18th century map of the Ottoman Empire in Asia, titled “Turquie d’Asie,” was published in Paris ar...

Category

Late 18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Blaeu Map of China, Japan & Korea, Exotic Cartouches & Ships, c.1642
Antique Blaeu Map of China, Japan & Korea, Exotic Cartouches & Ships, c.1642

Antique Blaeu Map of China, Japan & Korea, Exotic Cartouches & Ships, c.1642

Located in Langweer, NL

All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only.

Category

Mid-17th Century Dutch Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Java, Sumatra & Borneo Map – Bellin & van Schley Decorative Chart, 1750s
Java, Sumatra & Borneo Map – Bellin & van Schley Decorative Chart, 1750s

Java, Sumatra & Borneo Map – Bellin & van Schley Decorative Chart, 1750s

Located in Langweer, NL

A strong impression. Framing tips: Best suited to a dark wood frame—such as teak or rosewood—with a neutral ivory or parchment-colored mat to complement the aged tones of the map a...

Category

Mid-18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Paris and Surroundings – Antique Map by Gall and Inglis, Published 1843
Paris and Surroundings – Antique Map by Gall and Inglis, Published 1843

Paris and Surroundings – Antique Map by Gall and Inglis, Published 1843

Located in Langweer, NL

The hand coloring remains clear and attractive, with no loss of detail. Framing suggestion: This map would be ideally presented in a slim, black or dark walnut wood frame, with a ne...

Category

Mid-19th Century English Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Southern Sweden Provinces Map – Homann’s ‘Nova Tabula Scaniae’, ca. 1730
Southern Sweden Provinces Map – Homann’s ‘Nova Tabula Scaniae’, ca. 1730

Southern Sweden Provinces Map – Homann’s ‘Nova Tabula Scaniae’, ca. 1730

Located in Langweer, NL

Has darker border around in margins and strong paper without repairs or tears. Framing tips: This map pairs well with a gold or walnut-toned wooden frame.

Category

Mid-18th Century German Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

1857 Map of Northern South America – Brazil, Colombia, Peru by Stülpnagel
1857 Map of Northern South America – Brazil, Colombia, Peru by Stülpnagel

1857 Map of Northern South America – Brazil, Colombia, Peru by Stülpnagel

Located in Langweer, NL

Vibrant hand-coloring of political borders remains intact. Framing suggestions: This map suits a natural wood or walnut frame with a light cream mat to highlight the crisp engraving.

Category

Mid-19th Century German Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

1874 Map of Western United States – Detailed Atlas by Keith Johnston
1874 Map of Western United States – Detailed Atlas by Keith Johnston

1874 Map of Western United States – Detailed Atlas by Keith Johnston

Located in Langweer, NL

No tears or repairs noted. Fully suitable for framing. Framing tips: Frame this map in a slim black, walnut, or antique gold frame to enhance its historic and geographical appeal.

Category

1870s Scottish Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

17th Century Blaeu Map – Ottoman Balkans: Walachia, Bulgaria, Romania, ca. 1650
17th Century Blaeu Map – Ottoman Balkans: Walachia, Bulgaria, Romania, ca. 1650

17th Century Blaeu Map – Ottoman Balkans: Walachia, Bulgaria, Romania, ca. 1650

Located in Langweer, NL

No tears or repairs noted. Fully suitable for framing. Framing tips: Frame this map in a thin dark wood or black moulding to complement its monochrome engraving.

Category

17th Century Dutch Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Switzerland Map 1778 – Striking Hand-Colored Copperplate of the Thirteen Cantons
Switzerland Map 1778 – Striking Hand-Colored Copperplate of the Thirteen Cantons

Switzerland Map 1778 – Striking Hand-Colored Copperplate of the Thirteen Cantons

Located in Langweer, NL

Slight toning in the margins is consistent with 18th-century paper and storage. Framing Tips: This map is ideal for display in a library, study, or alpine chalet interior.

Category

Late 18th Century European Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Map of the Southeastern USA and Atlantic States – Vintage 1903 Geography
Map of the Southeastern USA and Atlantic States – Vintage 1903 Geography

Map of the Southeastern USA and Atlantic States – Vintage 1903 Geography

Located in Langweer, NL

The engraved lines and colored boundaries remain vivid, offering a crisp visual appeal perfect for display or collection. This map would look splendid framed in a classic or antique...

Category

Early 20th Century Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Map of Western United States 1903 – Railroads, State Borders, and Terrain
Map of Western United States 1903 – Railroads, State Borders, and Terrain

Map of Western United States 1903 – Railroads, State Borders, and Terrain

Located in Langweer, NL

It retains its charm and historical significance, making it a remarkable addition to any collection of antique maps or Americana. For framing, a classic wooden frame in dark or natu...

Category

Early 20th Century Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Vintage Paris Metro Map, Ligne 11 Opening, Art Deco Transit Plan, 1935
Vintage Paris Metro Map, Ligne 11 Opening, Art Deco Transit Plan, 1935

Vintage Paris Metro Map, Ligne 11 Opening, Art Deco Transit Plan, 1935

Located in Langweer, NL

All items we offer are authentic period works of art. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only.

Category

Early 20th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Blaeu Strait of Magellan Map – Tierra del Fuego, Decorative Sea Chart, 1642
Blaeu Strait of Magellan Map – Tierra del Fuego, Decorative Sea Chart, 1642

Blaeu Strait of Magellan Map – Tierra del Fuego, Decorative Sea Chart, 1642

Located in Langweer, NL

All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may ...

Category

Mid-17th Century Dutch Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of the Ancient Middle East & India – Wilkinson Orientis Tabula, 1807
Antique Map of the Ancient Middle East & India – Wilkinson Orientis Tabula, 1807

Antique Map of the Ancient Middle East & India – Wilkinson Orientis Tabula, 1807

Located in Langweer, NL

Margins remain generous and suitable for framing. Framing tips: This map frames beautifully in a classic dark walnut or ebonized wood frame with a wide ivory or museum-white mat.

Category

Early 19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

17th Century Map of Southern Portugal by Sanson – Hand-Colored, 1679
17th Century Map of Southern Portugal by Sanson – Hand-Colored, 1679

17th Century Map of Southern Portugal by Sanson – Hand-Colored, 1679

Located in Langweer, NL

Ensure the frame size allows for a generous border around the map to highlight its detailed edges and cartouche.

Category

Late 17th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

1882 Map of Brazil: Historic Borders, River Systems, and Coastal Regions
1882 Map of Brazil: Historic Borders, River Systems, and Coastal Regions

1882 Map of Brazil: Historic Borders, River Systems, and Coastal Regions

Located in Langweer, NL

The printed details remain crisp and legible, while the coloring used to define boundaries and features is vibrant and well-preserved. Tips on How to Frame This Map: 1. Choose a fr...

Category

1880s Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Crete Map 1749 – Homann Heirs Engraving of Candia with Aegean Islands
Crete Map 1749 – Homann Heirs Engraving of Candia with Aegean Islands

Crete Map 1749 – Homann Heirs Engraving of Candia with Aegean Islands

Located in Langweer, NL

The large decorative cartouche remains uncolored, as originally intended, adding depth and graphic interest to the composition. Framing Tips: This map will display beautifully in a ...

Category

1740s German Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Persia Map Wall Art – Iran Afghanistan Beluchistan, Rand McNally, c.1888
Antique Persia Map Wall Art – Iran Afghanistan Beluchistan, Rand McNally, c.1888

Antique Persia Map Wall Art – Iran Afghanistan Beluchistan, Rand McNally, c.1888

Located in Langweer, NL

Printed on original period atlas paper, the sheet retains the authentic surface and character expected of a genuine antique map. Once framed, it becomes a refined statement piece for...

Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map Turkey in Asia, Ottoman Empire Anatolia Syria Iraq Black, 1884
Antique Map Turkey in Asia, Ottoman Empire Anatolia Syria Iraq Black, 1884

Antique Map Turkey in Asia, Ottoman Empire Anatolia Syria Iraq Black, 1884

Located in Langweer, NL

The engraving remains crisp and the printed color remains clear and attractive. Framing tips: This map displays beautifully in a wide horizontal frame.

Category

Late 19th Century Scottish Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Rare 1690 Map of England by Nicolaes Visscher II – Heptarchy Depicted
Rare 1690 Map of England by Nicolaes Visscher II – Heptarchy Depicted

Rare 1690 Map of England by Nicolaes Visscher II – Heptarchy Depicted

Located in Langweer, NL

A large and richly detailed and decorative map celebrating Anglo-Dutch relations. Framing tip: Frame in dark wood or gold with a light cream or parchment-toned mat.

Category

Late 17th Century Dutch Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of the Atlantic Ocean by Desnos with Ornate Border, 1761
Antique Map of the Atlantic Ocean by Desnos with Ornate Border, 1761

Antique Map of the Atlantic Ocean by Desnos with Ornate Border, 1761

Located in Langweer, NL

Margins intact, with a strong and clear impression and well-preserved contemporary outline coloring. Framing tips: This map is ideally suited to a prominent wall display.

Category

Mid-18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of Flores, Timor and the Sunda Islands, French, c.1790
Antique Map of Flores, Timor and the Sunda Islands, French, c.1790

Antique Map of Flores, Timor and the Sunda Islands, French, c.1790

Located in Langweer, NL

This is an original antique engraving from 1809, not a reproduction. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are for visualisation purposes only and may not always represent the ...

Category

Late 18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

1908 John Bartholomew Miniature Map of Penang, Malacca, and Negri Sembilan
1908 John Bartholomew Miniature Map of Penang, Malacca, and Negri Sembilan

1908 John Bartholomew Miniature Map of Penang, Malacca, and Negri Sembilan

Located in Langweer, NL

Instead, use archival-quality corner mounts or Japanese paper hinges to secure the map safely. The framed map should be displayed in a controlled environment, away from direct sun...

Category

Early 1900s Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Australia & New Zealand Map Wall Art – Rand McNally Atlas, c.1888
Antique Australia & New Zealand Map Wall Art – Rand McNally Atlas, c.1888

Antique Australia & New Zealand Map Wall Art – Rand McNally Atlas, c.1888

Located in Langweer, NL

Title: Antique Australia & New Zealand Map Wall Art – Rand McNally Atlas, c.1888 Description: This finely colored antique atlas map presents Australia in full, accompanied by in...

Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Map of Manchester – Large Scale Victorian City Plan, George W. Bacon, 1885
Map of Manchester – Large Scale Victorian City Plan, George W. Bacon, 1885

Map of Manchester – Large Scale Victorian City Plan, George W. Bacon, 1885

Located in Langweer, NL

Please consult images for precise condition details. Framing tips: The map is offered unframed, allowing flexibility to select a frame that best suits the intended interior.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Egypt & Lower Nubia – Elegant Antique Atlas Map of the Nile, ca.1888
Egypt & Lower Nubia – Elegant Antique Atlas Map of the Nile, ca.1888

Egypt & Lower Nubia – Elegant Antique Atlas Map of the Nile, ca.1888

Located in Langweer, NL

Overall well preserved with clean color and strong legibility. Framing tips: This map works beautifully in a light oak, walnut, or muted gold frame with an off-white or warm ivory m...

Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Plan of Glasgow – Large Scale Victorian City Map, George W. Bacon, 1885
Plan of Glasgow – Large Scale Victorian City Map, George W. Bacon, 1885

Plan of Glasgow – Large Scale Victorian City Map, George W. Bacon, 1885

Located in Langweer, NL

Please review images for detailed condition. Framing tips: The map is offered unframed, allowing flexibility to select a frame that best suits the intended interior.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

The Philippines & Southeast Asia – Bonne’s Antique Map of Indo-China, c.1780
The Philippines & Southeast Asia – Bonne’s Antique Map of Indo-China, c.1780

The Philippines & Southeast Asia – Bonne’s Antique Map of Indo-China, c.1780

Located in Langweer, NL

A dark walnut, ebonized, or antique gilt frame complements the map’s late 18th-century character and works well in both classic studies and contemporary interiors.

Category

Late 18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Map of the Eastern Hemisphere by Lapie, France, circa 1830
Antique Map of the Eastern Hemisphere by Lapie, France, circa 1830

Antique Map of the Eastern Hemisphere by Lapie, France, circa 1830

Located in Langweer, NL

No major tears or repairs. Framing tips: This map would benefit from an archival-quality mount with a soft cream or antique white mat to enhance the aged paper and subtle coloring.

Category

1830s Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

French Guiana & Suriname – Rigobert Bonne’s Colonial Map of the Guianas, c.1780
French Guiana & Suriname – Rigobert Bonne’s Colonial Map of the Guianas, c.1780

French Guiana & Suriname – Rigobert Bonne’s Colonial Map of the Guianas, c.1780

Located in Langweer, NL

A dark walnut, blackened wood, or subtle antique gilt frame complements the map’s scholarly and maritime character and works well in both classic and modern interiors.

Category

Late 18th Century French Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Caribbean Map Wall Art – Cuba Jamaica Hispaniola, Rand McNally, ca.1888
Antique Caribbean Map Wall Art – Cuba Jamaica Hispaniola, Rand McNally, ca.1888

Antique Caribbean Map Wall Art – Cuba Jamaica Hispaniola, Rand McNally, ca.1888

Located in Langweer, NL

Printed on original atlas paper, the sheet retains the authentic surface and tone of a genuine antique map. Once framed, it becomes an inviting focal point for a study, library, coas...

Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Miniature Map Scandinavia & Baltic Sea, La Navigation du Nord, c.1732
Antique Miniature Map Scandinavia & Baltic Sea, La Navigation du Nord, c.1732

Antique Miniature Map Scandinavia & Baltic Sea, La Navigation du Nord, c.1732

Located in Langweer, NL

Its manageable size makes it particularly appealing for collectors seeking an authentic period map suitable for framing individually or as part of a thematic grouping focused on expl...

Category

Early 18th Century Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Plan of Portsmouth – Antique Town Map, George W. Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885
Plan of Portsmouth – Antique Town Map, George W. Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885

Plan of Portsmouth – Antique Town Map, George W. Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885

Located in Langweer, NL

Please examine images for precise condition details. Framing tips: The map is offered unframed, allowing flexibility to select a frame that best suits the intended interior.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Isthmus of Caucasus and Armenia, Antique Map, Black Sea to Caspian, 1860
Isthmus of Caucasus and Armenia, Antique Map, Black Sea to Caspian, 1860

Isthmus of Caucasus and Armenia, Antique Map, Black Sea to Caspian, 1860

Located in Langweer, NL

A dark walnut, black, or understated antique gilt frame complements the map’s academic and exploratory character.

Category

Mid-19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Plan of Leeds – Large Scale Victorian City Map, Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885
Plan of Leeds – Large Scale Victorian City Map, Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885

Plan of Leeds – Large Scale Victorian City Map, Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885

Located in Langweer, NL

Please review images for detailed condition. Framing tips: The map is offered unframed, allowing flexibility to select a frame that best suits the intended interior.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

OriginaAntique 17th-Century Map of Guizhou Province, China – (Qveichev) by Blaeu
OriginaAntique 17th-Century Map of Guizhou Province, China – (Qveichev) by Blaeu

OriginaAntique 17th-Century Map of Guizhou Province, China – (Qveichev) by Blaeu

Located in Langweer, NL

Minimal age-toning consistent with the map’s age. Framing Tips: A double mat in neutral or muted tones and an ornate gilt frame will emphasize the historic and artistic value of thi...

Category

1650s Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique County Map, Shropshire, English, Atlas Engraving, Richard Blome, C.1673
Antique County Map, Shropshire, English, Atlas Engraving, Richard Blome, C.1673

Antique County Map, Shropshire, English, Atlas Engraving, Richard Blome, C.1673

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique county map of Shropshire. An English, framed atlas engraving by Richard Blome, dating to the 17th century and later.

Category

17th Century British Restauration Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Glass, Wood, Paper

Plan of Southampton – Antique Town Map, George W. Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885
Plan of Southampton – Antique Town Map, George W. Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885

Plan of Southampton – Antique Town Map, George W. Bacon, Ordnance Atlas, 1885

Located in Langweer, NL

Please review images for detailed condition. Framing tips: The map is offered unframed, allowing flexibility to select a frame that best suits the intended interior.

Category

Late 19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique Suffolk County Map, Dutch, Atlas Novus, Joan Blaeu, Cartography, C.1645
Antique Suffolk County Map, Dutch, Atlas Novus, Joan Blaeu, Cartography, C.1645

Antique Suffolk County Map, Dutch, Atlas Novus, Joan Blaeu, Cartography, C.1645

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique county map of Suffolk. A Dutch, framed atlas engraving by Joan Blaeu, dating to the 17th century and later.

Category

1640s Dutch Charles II Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Glass, Paper

Mexico, Antique Map, Central America and Gulf of Mexico, Blackie Atlas 1860
Mexico, Antique Map, Central America and Gulf of Mexico, Blackie Atlas 1860

Mexico, Antique Map, Central America and Gulf of Mexico, Blackie Atlas 1860

Located in Langweer, NL

A dark walnut, black, or understated antique gilt frame complements the map’s academic and exploratory character.

Category

Mid-19th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

Antique French Folding Map of Tours, Le Mans & Chartres, c.1902 Etat-Major
Antique French Folding Map of Tours, Le Mans & Chartres, c.1902 Etat-Major

Antique French Folding Map of Tours, Le Mans & Chartres, c.1902 Etat-Major

Located in Langweer, NL

Framing Suggestions: This map is sold unframed. For display, we recommend conservation mounting with all original margins and fold lines preserved as evidence of its historical use.

Category

Early 20th Century British Antique Maps Framed

Materials

Paper

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Antique Maps Framed For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal antique maps framed for your home. Each antique maps framed for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using paper, wood and glass. Your living room may not be complete without an antique maps framed — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. Each antique maps framed bearing Neoclassical, Mid-Century Modern or Victorian hallmarks is very popular. George F. Cram, Herman Moll and Townsend MacCoun each produced at least one beautiful antique maps framed that is worth considering.

Finding the Right Collectibles-curiosities for You

Antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities can bring whimsy and wonder to any interior. 

Decorating with old scientific instruments, historical memorabilia and vintage musical instruments, as well as other authentic collectibles and curiosities that can be found on 1stDibs, presents an opportunity to create a unique, natural history museum-like atmosphere in your home that can provoke conversation as often as it pays tribute to how far we’ve come in understanding our world. 

And bringing collectibles and curiosities into your space is actually on trend — Wunderkammern, or curiosity cabinets, were all the rage in Europe during the 1500s and continued to have adherents there and in the U.S. in the following centuries. Today, however, they’re experiencing a real surge in popularity and influencing how many interior designers are furnishing and decorating homes — combining contemporary with antique, scientific with tribal, earthly with extraterrestrial, Les Lalanne tables with Flemish tapestries.

The original Wunderkammern were entire rooms filled with objects demonstrating their owners’ worldly knowledge: A proper one included artificiala or preciosa (objets d’art); naturalia (such as skeletons, shells, minerals); exotica (taxidermy or dried plants); and scientifica (scientific instruments), frequently alongside religious relics and ancient artifacts.

Pay tribute to a history of rich and diverse musical traditions that have taken shape all over the world by decorating your home with a collection of antique and vintage musical instruments — with a little help from strong hanging wire or some wall hooks, vintage brass instruments such as a gong, French horn or trumpet can help elevate a home office or complement the efforts you’ve made to ensure a welcoming vibe in your home’s entryway. Bells or antique wind instruments can add provocative metallic contrasts to dark woods as tabletop decorative objects.  

Create an intriguing focal point with Georgian scientific instruments, such as stick barometers with mahogany cases or lacquered brass telescopes. These items stem from an era named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who ruled England in succession starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign, which lasted until 1837). Just as there was beautiful jewelry produced during the period that today is coveted by collectors, there is much to be found in the collectibles and curiosities realm too.

Wanderlust, nostalgia and a shared love of good design are contributing factors to certain trends in decorating — just as vintage trunks and luggage have reappeared as furniture or home accents in a bedroom or foyer, decorating with globes, maps or nautical objects is similarly rooted in the allure of travel and a penchant for the stylish finishing touch that collectibles bring to our homes.

Find a wide range of antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities on 1stDibs.

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