Top of the World - Published 1949 by National Geographic

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Top of the World — National Geographic Wall Map (1949)

A globe reimagined from the north down. Published in October 1949 in an issue featuring five articles on polar exploration, this polar-centric world map places the Arctic at the center, offering a breathtaking, cartographic rethink of how the continents meet at high latitudes—made to command a wall and reward close study.

More Than a Map – A Testament to Perspective

This isn’t just wall art—it’s a fresh frame on the planet. A precise polar projection lays out coastlines, islands, meridians & parallels, and the sweep of the northern oceans so you can read routes, distances, and relationships unique to the high north. Ideal for educators, explorers, designers, historians, travelers, and collectors, it complements mid-century National Geographic world and hemisphere sheets.

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

Premium Materials & Finishes

We treat cartography 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 tiny labels.
Perfect 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—ideal for classrooms and high-traffic reference spaces.

Optional Natural Timber Hang Rails: lacquered rails with a fitted hanging cord for a polished, ready-to-hang presentation. (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 grain; top cord for effortless hanging—elegant in any setting. (Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery with hang rails.)

Specifications

Feature	Details
Title	Top of the World
Series	National Geographic single-sheet polar-centric world map
Original Publication	1949 (October) — in an issue with five polar-exploration articles
Scale	1:14,000,000
Cartographic Content	Arctic-centered projection; continents & coastlines; islands; graticule; polar oceans
Map Size	721 mm (W) × 746 mm (H)
Available Formats	Paper, Laminated, Canvas
Paper Weight	160gsm archival-quality
Laminate	2 × 80-micron gloss laminate sheets (encapsulated)
Canvas Weight	395gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas
Inks	Pigment-based, fade-resistant
Optional Hang Rails	Available on Laminated & Canvas (lead time up to 10 working days)
Origin	Printed in Australia

Why Choose This Map

✔ Perspective Shift: See the world from the pole, where continents converge.
✔ Clarity at Scale: Polar projection, crisp graticule, and fine labeling read beautifully near and far.
✔ Decorative & Scholarly: Bold wall presence with meticulous, legible detail.
✔ Archival Craft: Premium substrates and inks preserve contrast, labels, and linework for decades.

Our Commitment

We believe that preserving perspective is as important as exploring 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.

Recenter your world—order the Top of the World Wall Map (1949) and turn your space into a conversation.