World Maps: A Journey Back in Time

Brown, Kevin J.: - Kevin J. Brown, is the owner of Geographicus Rare Antique Maps (http: //www.geographicus.com), a generalist dealer in rare maps from all periods and at all value points. Kevin attended Bennington College, in Vermont, where he majored in Pilgrimage. Bennington fosters a learn by doing approach to academics, and Kevin has translated this philosophy to the map trade. He approaches his study of early cartography from a hands-on perspective, supplementing historical knowledge and the study of primary source material with visceral experience. To better understand the experience of early travelers and mapmakers in the Amazon, for example, he spent a month with indigenous guides bushwhacking through the primary rainforests of the Guyana Shield, learning in the process traditional jungle survival techniques. Or, to better understand the experience of early merchants in Europe, he trekked the ancient Roman road system through France and Spain, eschewing all modern comforts and transport, for several months. He has also studied early engraving, printing, and drafting techniques. While Kevin understands that these adventures and studies will not turn him into a jungle survivalist, a medieval merchant, or master etcher, he believes that a better understanding the challenges that early surveyors, mapmakers, and travelers would have faced, on a multifaceted personal level, contributes to his ability to appreciate and relate to the early maps he deals in.