Europe and the Near East Wall Map - Published 1940 by National Geographic

Europe and the Near East — National Geographic Wall Map (1940)

A continent in flux at the edge of upheaval. Published in May 1940, this authoritative Europe and the Near East wall map fixes international boundaries as of 1 April 1940—a precise snapshot of political lines as the world braced for wider war. Elegant colouring, disciplined typography, and clear symbol hierarchy make it a composition that commands a wall from across the room and rewards close study at arm’s length.

A thoughtful Middle East inset extends the frame into the Asian countries adjacent to Europe, illuminating trade routes, capitals, and the interconnected geography of the Mediterranean and beyond. It’s both reference and artefact—rich with context, poised at a turning point.

More Than a Map – A Testament to History

This isn’t just wall art—it’s a frame for understanding Europe and the Near East in 1940. Borders, capitals, and transport networks reveal a civilisation balancing tradition, strategy, and uncertainty. Ideal for educators, planners, historians, designers, and collectors, it pairs beautifully with other interwar and wartime National Geographic maps for thematic displays and comparative study.

Hang it in studios, libraries, classrooms, museums, offices, or at home to invite reflection, study, and conversation.

Premium Materials & Finishes

We treat history with the respect it deserves. That’s why we offer multiple formats, each produced using high-quality materials and modern archival printing.

🌟 Archival Paper Print
Printed on heavyweight 160gsm archival-grade paper.
Smooth matte finish reduces glare and preserves fine linework and small labels.
Ideal for framing under glass—clean, timeless, and built to last.

💎 Laminated Edition
Encapsulated in two sheets of 80-micron gloss laminate using true thermal bonding—not just surface lamination.
Moisture-resistant, wipe-clean surface—perfect for classrooms and high-traffic reference spaces.

Optional Natural Timber Hang Rails: lacquered rails with a fitted hanging cord provide a polished, ready-to-hang presentation—no frame required. (Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery with hang rails.)

🏆 Museum-Quality Canvas
Printed on heavyweight 395gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas for rich texture and exceptional strength.
Pigment-based, fade-resistant inks deliver deep tone and crisp typography that endure for generations.

Optional Natural Timber Hang Rails: lacquered to enhance the wood grain and protect against wear; top cord for effortless hanging—elegant in any setting. (Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery with hang rails.)

Specifications

Why Choose This Map

✔ Era-True Snapshot: Boundaries fixed as of 1 April 1940, on the threshold of global change.
✔ Context You Can See: Middle East inset clarifies Europe’s eastern interface and maritime links.
✔ Clarity at Scale: Balanced design for room-distance impact and rewarding close study.
✔ Decorative & Scholarly: Equally at home in living spaces, offices, and classrooms.
✔ Archival Craft: Premium substrates and inks preserve contrast, labels, and linework for decades.

Our Commitment

We believe that preserving history is as important as telling it. Every map is printed locally in Australia using state-of-the-art technology, carefully checked by hand, and packed with care. From the moment it leaves our workshop to the day it hangs on your wall, we ensure quality you can trust and a legacy you’ll be proud to share.

Bring 1940’s geopolitical crossroads into focus—order the Europe and the Near East Wall Map (1940) and turn your space into a conversation.