Frequently Asked Questions
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Are the maps 3D printed?
No, the maps are not 3D printed.
They are high-quality photographic prints that combine real-world elevation data with 3D digital rendering techniques to create a shaded relief effect - giving the impression and aesthetic of 3-dimensional topography on a 2-dimensional wall art surface.
We use today's technology to restore and enhance vintage historical maps, as well as create our own original pieces.
What is "shaded relief"?
Shaded relief is the cartographic technique of simulating 3-dimensional topography on a 2-dimensional map. It visualizes how the elevation, sunlight and shadows would look on the terrain - as if you were looking down at the landscape from an airplane.
Originally handcrafted by talented artists and cartographers, shaded relief effects can now be created with today's technology for stunningly accurate, realistic and beautiful results.
Hand drawn shaded relief by Swiss cartographer Eduard Imhof - 1938
All of our artwork is created by combining 3D computer rendering techniques with real-world, high-precision elevation data - meaning the topography and landscapes are actually how they would look in real life!
What is the quality of the prints?
All of our framed & frameless prints are produced in ultra high-resolution on premium Fujifilm Fujicolor Crystal Archive Paper, resulting in unmatched quality, clarity and detail.
These papers use state of the art C-type silver-halide printing, as opposed to standard inkjet or "giclée" (a fancy word for inkjet). While giclée printing can create museum-quality artwork, it is best suited to reproductions of painted works. This is because inkjet printing is limited by the amount of individual ink blots that can be laid down on the paper (DPI - dots per inch), and details can become blurry or lost.
Because of the fine details present in both maps and 3D rendered scenes, using C-type printing provides unparalleled clarity of text, light, shadows and terrain.
In addition to our regular prints, we also offer Aluminum prints. Printed on high-quality Aluminum using an innovative dye sublimation process, these durable metal panel prints offer a glossy, reflective and long-lasting finish.
What is "C-type" printing?
C-type (also known as chromogenic print) is the process of developing a photo using a "digital darkroom". It's the modern process of using LED lights to develop photos in the same silver-halide chemical process as traditional darkrooms.
C-type printing exposes chemical coated paper to LED lights, in a similar (yet more sophisticated and modern) way as traditional darkroom photos.
The advantage of C-type prints compared to standard inkjet (or "giclée") for our artwork is that the subtle lighting and shadows, as well as small text and map labels, are essential details of the print and we do not want them to become blurred or smudged from the inkjet's limitations.
Giclée vs. C-type printing methods
Utilizing C-type silver-halide printing, while more costly than other printing methods, results in a premium high-quality print that allows the details and realism of our artwork to shine through - as if you were taking a high-definition photo of the landscape!
What size are the maps?
Our prints come in various sizes and formats, depending on the dimensions of the map. Most are available in sizes ranging from small desk sized prints, to large displays suitable as an eye-catching piece in a living room or office.
All sizes and formats available for print (i.e. Gallery Frame, Wood Frame, Aluminum Print) are displayed on each artwork's product page.
Can I have my print framed?
Yes! We offer several ready-to-hang framing options for all of our prints. Just choose the framing option you would like on the item's product page when you add the item to your cart.
Do you offer custom prints?
We don't currently offer custom commissioned artwork. We may offer this in the future, however we are always adding new and unique locations to update our collections!
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