Old Map of Armenia by Piperjian, 1923: Yerevan, Trabzon, Lake Sevan, Mount Ararat, Lake Van

The "Գունավոր ընդարձակ քարտէս Հայաստանի բնական մաս" or "Extensive Color Map of the Natural Part of Armenia," crafted by A. Piperjian in 1923, is a fascinating historical artifact that captures the aspirations of a nation. Created in the aftermath of the First Armenian Republic's demise, this map is a poignant reminder of the Armenian people's dreams for independence and territorial integrity. Published in Istanbul by the prominent Turkish printer Ahmed Ihsan, the map boldly presents the concept of "Wilsonian Armenia," a proposed boundary configuration that was never realized but remains a significant part of Armenian history.

This map covers an extensive region, stretching from the Caucasus around Yerevan and Lake Sevan to the Black Sea past Trabzon. It vividly illustrates the geographical diversity of the area, featuring prominent landmarks such as Mount Ararat and Lake Van. The detailed topographical elements highlight the natural beauty and strategic importance of these regions, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of the Armenian homeland.

A. Piperjian's work is not just a map; it is a statement of identity and resilience. The use of traditional Armenian names for cities and towns underscores the deep-rooted connection between the Armenian people and their ancestral lands. This map serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of a nation striving to reclaim its rightful place in history, even amidst the geopolitical upheavals of the early 20th century.

The map's design and style are a testament to the cartographic artistry of the time. With text entirely in Armenian, it reflects a unique blend of cultural pride and political advocacy. The intricate detailing of physical features, such as rivers and mountains, offers a glimpse into the region's rich natural landscape, inviting viewers to explore the historical narratives embedded within its borders.

Historically significant, this map captures a pivotal moment in Armenian history, reflecting the complex dynamics between Armenia, Turkey, and the Soviet Union. It stands as a rare piece of cartographic propaganda, advocating for Armenian territorial claims in a period when such expressions were fraught with danger. For collectors and history enthusiasts alike, this map is a compelling addition that offers both aesthetic beauty and profound historical insight.

Cities and towns on this map

• Armenia:

• Yerevan

• Turkey:

• Trabzon
• Erzurum
• Van

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Bodies of Water:
• Lake Sevan

• Lake Van

• Mountains:

• Mount Ararat

• Borders:

• Proposed boundaries of Wilsonian Armenia

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Armenian Independence Map -- Wilsonian Armenia
• Date of creation: 1923
• Mapmaker/Publisher: A. Piperjian, published in Istanbul by Ahmed Ihsan
• Historical context:
• Created after the demise of the First Armenian Republic (1918-1920).
• Reflects the concept of "Wilsonian Armenia," based on U.S. President Woodrow Wilson's proposed boundaries in the Treaty of Sèvres (1920).
• The Treaty of Sèvres was never ratified, and the map represents a wishful imagining of an independent Armenian state.
• Themes and topics:
• Advocates for the "Natural" territory of an Armenian state, covering regions in eastern Anatolia and the western Caucasus.
• Uses traditional Armenian names for cities and towns.
• Serves as a propaganda piece promoting Armenian territorial claims.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.