The Emerging World - Map Treasures from the A. E. Nordenskiöld Collection
Exhibition at the National Museum of Finland 26 April – 27 October 2013.
The National Library of Finland’s A. E. Nordenskiöld collection is one of the world’s most significant collections of old maps. The collection includes 24 000 maps printed before the year 1800. In 1997 the collection was included in UNESCO's Memory of the World register.
Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld (1832-1901) made 10 research expeditions to the Arctic Ocean, and in 1878–1879 was the first explorer to sail through the Northeast Passage on a continuous trip. After preparing for his expeditions by studying old maps and travel accounts, Nordenskiöld gradually became interested in the history of cartography and was later a world famous pioneer in that field.
The exhibition covers the emerging view of the world, daring expeditions, rivalries among colonial powers, and the expeditions’ effects on the accumulation of scientific knowledge. Nordenskiöld was born, studied, and began his researcher career in Finland. The exhibition also tells of his colourful life and accomplishments.
The exhibition is associated with the International Conference on the History of Cartography (ICHC) held in Helsinki 30 June - 5 July 2013.
Publication “The Emerging World – Map Treasures from the A. E. Nordenskiöld Collection”. SKS, 2013. Forthcoming to Museum Shop.
Exhibition organised by The National Library of Finland and the National Museum of Finland.
Content design and script Chief Intendant Jouni Kuurne, Tha National Museum of Finland, Professor Tapio Markkanen, M.Phil. Leena Miekkavaara and M.Phil. Anna-Maija Pietilä-Ventelä, The National Library.
For further information please contact:
Chief Intendant Jouni Kuurne, National Museum of Finland, tel. + 358 (0)40 128 6381, jouni.kuurne(at)nba.fi;
Cultural Coordinator Inkeri Pitkäranta, National Library of Finland, tel. +358 (0)9 191 22738, (0)50 302 7238, inkeri.pitkaranta(at)helsinki.fi;
Curator Satu Frondelius, National Museum of Finland, tel. + 358 (0)40 128 6390, satu.frondelius(at)nba.fi
The National Museum of Finland, Mannerheimintie 34, Helsinki.
Open: Tue-Sun 11 a.m - 6 p.m., Closed Mon.
Entry fees: 8,00 euros / 6,00 euros, free under 18 years old.
