Man was producing primitive maps from clay and bark before he was able to
communicate through writing. The sea has always been important for food and
exploration so charts were sketched on shells and bones showing caves, fishing
grounds and hidden rocks.

The great 15th & 16th Century voyages of discovery speeded the development of
cartography. Diaz, Magellan, Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Cabral and others opened
up new areas un-dreamed of by those who had gone before them.

It was during the 16th Century that maps evolved into the intricate documents that
we know today. By the end of the 16th Century we see strapwork designs,
the incorporation of gargoyles and fantastic creatures and compass roses.
During the 17th Century the lavish embelishment and decoration of maps became
standard practice as illustrated below.