Historical manuscripts, maps, letters, and records that offer a direct window into the past. These written artifacts preserve the thoughts, events, and transactions of individuals and societies across time.
Yellow Bull’s gaze meets the viewer without embellishment, creating an immediate sense of presence. The photograph invites reflection not only on the individual portrayed, but also on the wider historical and cultural world to which he belonged.
This image of White Shield not only showcases the dignified presence of its subject but also offers a window into the rich cultural heritage of the Arikara people during a time of profound change for Native American communities.
For this portrait, Hastobiga’s ceremonial attire—feather-adorned headdress, body paint, and ritual rattles—suggests Curtis collaborated with him to highlight the sacred role of the hatałii.
A medieval world map on vellum, centering Jerusalem and blending geography, religion, and mythology called the Hereford Mappa Mundi.
A hand-drawn world map on parchment from 1513 CE, part of Piri Reis' navigational works, depicting the Atlantic coasts, parts of the Americas, Africa, and Europe with remarkable accuracy
A hand-drawn map on paper from 1525, part of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting Rhodes’ coastline, harbors, and strategic features shortly after its Ottoman conquest.
A hand-drawn double-page map on paper from 1525, part of the second edition of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting the Mediterranean with high accuracy and northern Europe with distortions, reflecting Ottoman maritime priorities.
A detailed hand-drawn navigational chart on paper from the early 16th century, part of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting the Andalusian coast with Granada as a central feature, reflecting Ottoman maritime interests.
A hand-drawn map on paper from 1525, part of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting Cairo’s layout with south at the top, highlighting districts and landmarks like the Pyramids and the City of the Dead.
A detailed hand-drawn map on paper from circa 1525, part of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting Crete’s coastal features, harbors, and strategic significance in the Mediterranean.
A detailed hand-drawn map on paper from circa 1525, part of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting the fortified city of Alanya with its defenses, landmarks, and strategic coastal layout.
A detailed hand-drawn and painted world map on parchment from 1525, part of "Kitab-ı Bahriye," depicting the known world with Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, reflecting Ottoman cartographic expertise.