In this generously illustrated book, Jerry Brotton documents the dramatic changes in the nature of geographical representation which took place during the sixteenth century, and suggests that they tell us a great deal about the transformation of European culture at the end of the early modern era. He examines the age's fascination with maps, charts, and globes as both texts and artifacts that provided their owners with a promise of gain, be it intellectual, political, or financial.

Previous edition: 1997.

An empire built on water : the cartography of the early Portuguese discoveries --Disorienting the East : the geography of the Ottoman Empire -- Cunning cosmographers : mapping the Moluccas -- Plotting and projecting : the geography of Mercator and Ortelius.