Cartographical capstones

Across each presented map, there are empirical structures that are emphasized, such as the city walls on the first page of the exhibit and throughout the Ottoman map examples. Mapping cities has many purposes that vary across cultures. Maps of city views might have been used for navigation but more often for commemoration and topographical knowledge, especially in the selection that we forward. Cultural history and significance is shown as a part of this art form, as well as aesthetic conventions for the enjoyment of the viewer. 

Landmarks such as religious sites are shown across all three exhibit pages. Whether it be for administrative or commemorative purposes. An commissioner's intentions behind requesting a city map has a notable affected on what landmarks the artist and collaborating creators prioritize and depict.

Each map we present show context for the landscape immediately surrounding their respective cities of focus, showing that city in relation to the rest of the topographical landscape.