Exploration

Items tied to the spirit of discovery, such as maps, navigational tools, or relics of expeditions. These pieces highlight humanity’s quest to chart the unknown, from ancient voyages to modern journeys.

Piri Reis, World Map, hand-drawn on parchment, 1513

World Map (1513 CE)

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

Piri Reis, Oval World Map, ink and paint on parchment, 1525

Oval World Map (1525)

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.