Map of Iceland Print - Islandia - 1542 Sea Monster Chart - Vintage Nordic Myth & Cartography

This mesmerizing 1542 map of Iceland, known as Islandia, is one of the most iconic examples of early cartography infused with myth and imagination. Surrounded by roaring seas and filled with fearsome sea monsters, dragons, and fantastical marine beasts, the map reflects how little was known about the far north at the time—and how much was feared. Created during an age when the lines between science and legend were blurred, this map features coastal settlements, mountainous terrain, and a symbolic depiction of Iceland’s wild isolation. A true masterpiece of both geography and medieval mythmaking, it continues to fascinate collectors and historians today.

This print is a captivating gift for lovers of ancient maps, Norse mythology, maritime history, or anyone enchanted by the mysteries of the old world. Ideal for study walls, libraries, fantasy-themed spaces, or history-inspired interiors, it’s as thought-provoking as it is visually dramatic. It also makes a perfect piece for game masters, authors, or educators exploring the mythic and geographical imagination of early European mapmakers. The presence of legendary sea creatures makes this more than a map—it’s a visual storybook of how people once understood the edges of the known world.

Printed on matte paper, this high-quality reproduction captures the dramatic linework and mythical details of the original 16th-century engraving. The matte finish enriches the texture and enhances every creature, coastline, and compass rose with clarity and character. A must-have for collectors of fantasy cartography, historical Icelandic prints, or medieval-inspired art, this map of Islandia is a timeless piece that bridges the boundary between exploration and imagination. It offers an unforgettable look at the stories people told when the seas were still full of monsters.