Antique Map Dealers based in London (UK), specialist in rare maps, old maps, antique maps, historic maps, old globes, old celestial charts, nautical charts, reference books on antique maps and map collecting. Advice given on how to start a map collection and investing in maps. All map collectors are invited to visit our London
Map Shop: Altea Gallery in Mayfair.
Antique maps are truly unique objects, not only do they represent our chequered history through the vagaries of time, wars, momentous discoveries and cartographical developments but they are also highly decorative with their own individual characters and style. They are enjoyed and collected by a wide variety of people of all ages, and have proved to be a good investment. They make ideal gifts for special occasions including weddings and anniversaries. Our experienced gallery staff provide a framing service and can advise about the restoration of items.
Massimo De Martini started trading as Altea Maps in 1992. As his business grew he acquired a shop in Camden Passage, one of the longest established London antique markets. Two years later he moved to a more central gallery space on Regent Street and more recently to the present location at the new Altea Gallery, in the heart of London’s Mayfair, opposite the Sotheby’s building.
Over the years he has earned a reputation for supplying high quality maps and atlases, at fair prices, to first-time buyers, experienced collectors and institutions all over the world.
In 1995 he led the internet revolution and was among the first dealers in the map trade
to offer a fully illustrated online map catalogue. We have always been very proud of this
achievement, and as the leading force on the internet we became a point of reference for
dealers throughout the world.
Nowadays there are large numbers of internet sites offering antique maps as well as e-Bay
and online auctions. However, to our knowledge, only a handful of dealers can supply their
customers with an exceptional item backed up by a full guarantee.