Old Map of the Art Forms of the Pacific by Covarrubias, 1940

The "Art Forms of the Pacific Area" map, crafted by the illustrious Mexican intellectual and artist Miguel Covarrubias in 1940, is a stunning exploration of cultural expression across the Pacific. Covarrubias, renowned for his deep interest in pre-Columbian American cultures and modern politics, imbues this map with a rich tapestry of traditional art forms. Commissioned for the 1939 San Francisco Golden Gate International Exposition, this map is part of the "Pageant of the Pacific" series, reflecting Covarrubias's fascination with the diverse artistic traditions that span the Pacific Ocean.

This map is a visual feast, showcasing an array of traditional art forms such as Haida Totems, Easter Island Heads, Aboriginal Australian Heads, Kazak Mozaiks, and Tartar engravings. Each illustration is meticulously placed, offering a glimpse into the vibrant cultures that define the Pacific region. Covarrubias's extensive travels throughout Southeast Asia, funded by prestigious awards like the Guggenheim Fellowship, informed his depiction of these cultural artifacts, highlighting the intricate connections between art and identity.

Covarrubias's unique style, known for its caricatural elements, is evident in this map's design. The lithographic technique employed here echoes the grandeur of the original mural, with each art form brought to life in vivid detail. The map's thematic focus on traditional art forms is a testament to Covarrubias's ability to blend artistic expression with cultural anthropology, making it a captivating piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The map's cartographic projection elegantly encompasses the vast Pacific Ocean, linking the Americas, Oceania, and parts of Asia in a seamless visual narrative. This geographic context underscores the historical significance of the Pacific as a crossroads of cultural exchange and interaction. Covarrubias's work not only highlights the artistic traditions of these regions but also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human cultures.

Historically, this map stands as a significant artifact of its time, showcasing the influence of Mexican muralists in the United States during the early 20th century. It was a major attraction at the 1939 exposition, drawing attention to the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific. Covarrubias's artistic vision, combined with his scholarly pursuits, creates a map that is both an educational tool and a work of art, inviting viewers to explore the diverse artistic heritage of the Pacific region.

Countries and regions on this map

• Continents:
• North America
• South America
• Asia

• Oceania

• Countries/Regions:

• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Central America
• Caribbean
• South American countries (e.g., Peru, Brazil)
• East Asian countries (e.g., China, Japan)
• Southeast Asian countries (e.g., Indonesia, Philippines)
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Various Pacific Islands (e.g., Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa)

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustrations of Traditional Art Forms:
• Haida Totems
• Easter Island Heads
• Aboriginal Australian Heads
• Kazak Mozaiks
• Tartar engravings
• Additional Illustrations:
• Various depictions of traditional clothing and artifacts.
• Illustrations of animals and mythical figures.
• Bodies of Water:
• The Pacific Ocean is prominently featured.
• Annotations:
• Labels indicating regions and types of art forms.

Historical and design context

• Created by: Miguel Covarrubias
• Year Made: 1940
• Mapmaker Context:
• Renowned Mexican intellectual and artist.
• Known for interest in pre-Columbian American cultures and modern politics.
• Work appeared in The New Yorker and Vanity Fair.
• Themes and Topics:
• Showcases traditional art forms of the Pacific region.
• Reflects Covarrubias's fascination with traditional American cultures and Southeast Asian art.
• Design and Style:
• Lithograph based on a mural.
• Features a caricatural style.
• Historical Significance:
• Highlights the influence of Mexican muralists in the United States.
• Major attraction at the 1939 exposition.

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 20in (50cm) 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.