Recreation of a mediaeval mappa mundi (map of the world), commissioned by English Heritage, as part of the Dover Castle, Great Tower refurbishment, 2009. The mappa is now in situ in Dover Castle, taking pride of place in the King's Hall, which is one of a suite of rooms that has been refurbished to take on the appearance of a royal suite of rooms in the 1180s. For further details go to the Dover Castle website. The mappa was created on a very large piece of calfskin, measuring 1.4metres by 1.1metres and, where possible, using authentic ink and early medieval pigments in egg tempera.

This is the first serious contemporary attempt to make a medieval world map and was created from a detailed, research led specification by the client. All imagery on the map had to be designed, based on the stylistic conventions of the 12th century. The calligraphy is based on the style used in the Winchester Bible.

Dr Steven Brindle, English Heritage; "Black Letter, in producing the Mappa Mundi and the Henry II charters for Dover Castle, have shown themselves to be true masters of calligraphy and illumination, with an innate feeling for mediaeval culture coupled with real artistic creative power of their own. About the Mappa, there is a real feeling that it is an authentic work of art, not a copy or a pastiche. We have been very impressed by their artistry and workmanship, and also by their professionalism and reliability. We could not be happier with the results."

We can produce a range of items for museums and historical organisations - to enable you to 'stage' an area, or for 'show and tell' items. This is in addition to artwork commissions for private clients.

Prepared on stretched calfskin vellum.

Size: approximately 1.1metres wide by 1.4metres in length.


Please note

• Image shows a commission example.
• We would like to stress that the images on this website are of low resolution and are only intended to give an impression of the original artwork.