Antarctica (1957)

Publisher: National Geographic
Published: 1957
Scale: 1 : 7,000,000
Size: 915 mm (W) × 735 mm (H)
Orientation: Landscape
Map Type: Historical, Scientific & Thematic Map
Collections: Poles • Historical • Thematic

Published in 1957, Antarctica captures the southern continent at a defining moment in modern scientific history — the era of the International Geophysical Year (1957–58), when Antarctica became the focus of unprecedented global cooperation, research, and exploration.

This map reflects a rapidly advancing understanding of the Antarctic continent, drawing on improved ground surveys, aerial photography, and early geophysical science. Coastlines, ice shelves, mountain ranges, and research activity are presented with the clarity and authority that made National Geographic the benchmark for mid-20th-century cartography.

It stands as a visual record of Antarctica just before the satellite age — when much was finally known, yet the continent still retained a sense of vast mystery.

🧊 What This Map Shows

• The Antarctic continent with refined coastal outlines

• Ice shelves, glaciers, and major mountain systems

• Key regions of scientific and exploratory interest

• A continent portrayed as a subject of science, not sovereignty

• Cartography shaped by International Geophysical Year research

The emphasis is on Antarctica as a global scientific frontier rather than a political space.

🌍 Historical & Scientific Context

• Produced during the International Geophysical Year, a landmark in polar science

• Reflects multinational research cooperation in Antarctica

• Shows the continent as understood prior to satellite imaging

• Bridges the gap between heroic exploration and modern polar science

This map represents a turning point: Antarctica as a place of shared knowledge and discovery.

🎨 Cartography & Design

• Clear, restrained colour palette suitable for scientific reference

• Strong emphasis on physical geography and ice features

• Balanced layout ideal for education, research, and display

• A classic example of National Geographic’s 1950s scientific cartography

🎨 Materials, Print Quality & Hanging Options

📄 Paper (Classic Framing Option)

• Printed on high-quality matte paper for crisp linework and labels

• Smooth, low-glare finish — ideal for framing under glass

• A timeless option for studies, libraries, and heritage interiors

🔒 Laminated (Write-On / Wipe-Off)

• Printed on quality paper and encapsulated in protective laminate

• Durable, waterproof, and tear-resistant

• Write-on / wipe-off surface compatible with whiteboard markers and map dots

• Ideal for classrooms, research discussion, and teaching

🪵 Optional Timber Hang Rails — Laminated

• Top and bottom natural timber rails provide structure and balance

• Bottom rail adds weight so the map hangs flat and straight

• Prevents edge curl and long-term sagging

• Supplied with hanging cord — ready to mount on a single hook

Please allow up to 10 working days for laminated maps with hang rails.

🎨 Archival Canvas (Premium Display Option)

• Printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas

• Subtle canvas texture enhances tonal depth while preserving fine detail

• Matte surface reduces reflections compared with glass-framed prints

Archival Pigment Inks

• Produced using Hewlett-Packard archival, fade-resistant pigment inks

• Ensures crisp typography, stable colour, and long-term durability

🪵 Optional Timber Hang Rails — Canvas

• Top and bottom timber rails create a clean, gallery-style presentation

• Bottom rail adds weight for a perfectly straight hang

• Prevents edge curl and sag over time

• Supplied with hanging cord — ready to mount

Please allow up to 10 working days for canvas maps with hang rails.

Canvas editions are intended for display and reference and are not write-on / wipe-off like laminated versions.

📐 Size & Scale

• Size: 915 mm × 735 mm

• Scale: 1 : 7,000,000

A generous, wall-ready format that allows Antarctic detail to be appreciated at a glance.

📊 Specifications

🎯 Who It’s For

• ❄️ Polar & Antarctic history enthusiasts

• 🗺️ National Geographic collectors — mid-century classics

• 🎓 Educators & libraries — polar science and geography

• 🏛️ Museums & institutions — Cold War–era scientific history

• 🎁 Gift buyers — distinctive, intellectually rich wall maps

🤝 Our Commitment

This historic National Geographic map is reproduced and printed in Australia with careful colour management and attention to original detail. Every print is checked and packed with care, ensuring it arrives ready to inform and inspire.

🛒 Explore Antarctica at the dawn of modern polar science — choose Paper, Laminated, or Canvas, with optional timber hang rails, and order Antarctica (1957)