Map of the World Showing the Extent of the British Empire
This richly illustrated world map was published as a supplement to The Graphic in 1886. It shows the extent of the British Empire at a time when imperial power, trade, politics and identity were being argued over with real intensity.
British territories are shown in red across the world map, surrounded by decorative figures, imperial symbols and the words “Freedom, Fraternity, Federation”. The map was closely tied to the Imperial Federation movement, which promoted the idea that Britain and its self-governing colonies could be brought into a closer political union.
What makes this piece so compelling is that it is both beautiful and deeply historical. It is a map, but it is also a piece of Victorian political imagination. It shows how the empire wanted to see itself: connected, ordered, global and permanent.
For us, this is exactly the kind of historical artwork worth preserving. It tells you as much about the ideas and ambitions of the period as it does about geography.
Restoration and Print
We have restored this map from the original archival source, taking care to preserve its decorative linework, typography, colour balance and period character.
The aim was not to strip away its age or make it look artificially new. We wanted to reduce the blemishes, marks and tonal issues that interfere with display, while keeping the atmosphere of the original nineteenth-century print.
Each print is produced on 250gsm Master's Edition archival paper. This is a matte, uncoated paper with a natural off-white tone, giving the print a softer and more traditional finish than standard poster paper. It is acid-free, FSC-certified and has a substantial weight and feel.
This is a premium print for people who want historic artwork with real substance behind it, not just a decorative image.
Work Details
Work: Imperial Federation, Map of the World Showing the Extent of the British Empire in 1886
Publication: Supplement to The Graphic
Publisher: Maclure & Co.
Place: London
Date: 1886
Statistical Information: Captain J.C.R. Colomb
Artist: Walter Crane
Restoration: Digital restoration from archival source
Print: 250gsm Master's Edition archival matte paper, natural off-white, acid-free and FSC-certified
