Rare Old Map of the North Pole by Pitt, 1680: Early English Map, Mythical Islands, Frisland, Zeno Map

"A Map of the North-Pole and the parts Adioining," created by Moses Pitt in 1680, is a remarkable artifact of early English cartography. Pitt, a visionary mapmaker, embarked on an ambitious project to expand Jansson's Atlas Maior, a venture that ultimately led to his financial ruin. Despite the project's failure, Pitt's map of the North Pole stands out as a new production, distinct from the re-issued Dutch maps that comprised most of the atlas. This map not only represents Pitt's cartographic skill but also his determination to contribute original work to the field of geography.

The map vividly suggests the existence of both a Northwest Passage and a Northeast Passage, routes that captivated explorers and cartographers of the time. However, these passages lead into "Parts Unknown," reflecting the limited geographical knowledge of the era. The detailed depiction of Iceland, complete with the erupting Mt. Hekla, and the labeled regions of northern Muscovy and Scandinavia, showcase the map's comprehensive coverage of known territories. Additionally, the map includes the mythical island of Frisland, a nod to the Zeno Map controversy that fascinated and perplexed scholars.

Aesthetically, the map is a masterpiece of design and style. It features four compass roses, adding both navigational utility and decorative elegance. The bottom right corner houses a small table explaining abbreviations, a practical touch for users of the map. The elaborate coat of arms in the bottom left, belonging to Charles FitzCharles, Earle of Plymouth, adds a touch of nobility and historical intrigue. FitzCharles, an illegitimate son of Charles II, was granted several titles before his untimely death in 1680, the same year this map was produced.

The title cartouche in the top left corner is a work of art in itself, accompanied by vignettes that bring the map to life. One vignette depicts an Inuit hunter with his family, highlighting the indigenous presence in the Arctic regions. Another shows Europeans engaged in whaling, hunting both narwhals and double-spouted rorquals, illustrating the economic activities of the time. These illustrations provide a glimpse into the lives and interactions of the people who inhabited or explored these remote areas.

Historically, this map is significant not only for its cartographic content but also for its connection to the broader narrative of exploration and myth. The depiction of Svalbard as Greenland and the connection of actual Greenland to Baffin’s Bay reflect common geographical misconceptions of the period. The inclusion of the mythical island of Frisland further emphasizes the blend of known and unknown that characterized early modern maps. Moses Pitt's creation is a testament to the spirit of discovery and the relentless pursuit of knowledge that defined the age of exploration.

Countries and regions on this map

• Iceland
• Greenland (both actual and as Svalbard)
• Muscovy (northern parts)
• Scandinavia
• Nova Zembla
• Frisland (mythical island)
• Parts of North America (including Baffin Island and Hudson Bay areas)
• Europe
• North America

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Inset Maps/Illustrations:
• Title cartouche with vignettes of Inuit hunters and Europeans whaling.
• Coat of arms of Charles FitzCharles.
• Bodies of Water:
• Northern Ocean
• Baffin’s Bay
• Hudson Bay
• Davis Strait
• The Deucalidonian Sea
• Mountain Ranges:
• Mt. Hekla (depicted erupting in Iceland)
• Other Features:
• Compass roses (four)
• Table of abbreviations (bottom right)
• Various annotations indicating "Parts Unknown"

Historical and design context

• Mapmaker/Publisher: Moses Pitt
• Moses Pitt aimed to produce an expanded edition of Jansson's Atlas Maior with Jacob Van Waesberg. The project failed, leading to Pitt's imprisonment for debt.
• Early English Map: This is an early English map of the North Polar Regions.
• New Production: Unlike most maps in the atlas, which were re-issues of earlier Dutch maps, this map of the North Pole was a new production by Pitt.
• Northwest and Northeast Passages: The map suggests the existence of both passages, though their ends are in "Parts Unknown."
• Geographical Details:
• Iceland is detailed with Mt. Hekla erupting.
• Far north of Muscovy and Scandinavia labeled.
• Nova Zembla has a complete coastline.
• Svalbard (often called Greenland) has an incomplete coast to the east.
• Actual Greenland is connected to Baffin’s Bay.
• Mythical Island: The island of Frisland (Freesland) is depicted southwest of Iceland.
• Cartouches and Illustrations:
• Inuit hunter and family, Inuit in a kayak, and Europeans whaling.
• Coat of arms of Charles FitzCharles, Earle of Plymouth.
• Design and Style:
• Compass roses (four)
• Table of abbreviations (bottom right)
• Elaborate coat of arms (bottom left)
• Historical Significance:
• Connection to Charles FitzCharles: The map features the coat of arms of Charles FitzCharles, an illegitimate son of Charles II, who died in 1680.
• Representation of Myths: Includes the mythical island of Frisland, part of the Zeno Map controversy.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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