Old Cunard Caronia Coronation Cruise Map, 1953: London, Paris, Rome, Gibraltar, Athens

Step back in time with the exquisite Cunard Caronia Coronation Cruise map from 1953, a vivid and historically rich depiction of a grand maritime journey. Created by the talented DEB, this full-color map captures the essence of the 1953 Coronation Cruise, celebrating the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The map's vibrant colors and intricate illustrations bring to life the significant routes, destinations, and landmarks associated with this historic event, making it a captivating piece for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

The map beautifully illustrates the journey of the Cunard Caronia, highlighting key locations such as London, Dover, and Edinburgh in the United Kingdom, as well as Paris, Rome, and Gibraltar in Europe. Each city and landmark is meticulously depicted, showcasing the cultural and historical significance of the cruise's itinerary. The inclusion of flags from various countries emphasizes the international nature of the voyage, reflecting the global celebration of the coronation.

One of the most striking features of this map is its artistic style, which combines thematic and pictorial elements to create a visually stunning representation of the cruise. The detailed illustrations of the ship, marine life, and mythical creatures add a whimsical touch, while the use of heraldic symbols and emblems denotes the regal significance of the event. The map's elaborate border and decorative elements further enhance its aesthetic appeal, making it a true work of art.

Historically, this map holds great significance as it commemorates a pivotal moment in British history—the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The map not only serves as a record of the cruise but also as a reflection of the cultural and historical context of the early 1950s. The depiction of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the inclusion of historical and mythical figures add layers of storytelling, providing a rich narrative of the era.

For those with a passion for maritime history, royal events, or simply the allure of vintage maps, the Cunard Caronia Coronation Cruise map is a treasure trove of historical and artistic value. Its detailed portrayal of the cruise's journey, combined with its vibrant colors and intricate design, makes it an exceptional addition to any collection. This map is not just a visual delight but also a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, celebrating a momentous occasion in the annals of history.

Places on this map

• London
• Dover
• Edinburgh
• Canterbury
• Paris
• Rome
• Gibraltar
• Naples
• Lisbon
• Southampton
• Venice
• Barcelona
• Malta
• Athens
• Istanbul
• Monaco
• Cannes
• Genoa
• Palermo
• Alexandria

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The route of the Cunard Caronia Coronation Cruise.
• The depiction of major cities and landmarks in the United Kingdom, such as London.
• Illustrations of key locations visited during the cruise.
• Artistic representations of the sea and marine life.
• Flags of various countries, indicating the international nature of the cruise.
• The presence of mythical creatures and symbolic figures, enhancing the thematic elements.
• The detailed illustration of the ship Cunard Caronia.
• The depiction of the coronation event, symbolized by regal imagery.
• The inclusion of significant historical landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower in France.
• The artistic border framing the map, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
• The representation of different weather conditions and natural elements.
• The inclusion of cultural symbols and motifs relevant to the time period.
• The visual representation of the cruise's journey across different seas.
• The inclusion of iconic buildings and structures, such as cathedrals and castles.
• The artistic rendering of the coastline and geographical features.
• The use of heraldic symbols and emblems to denote significance.
• The portrayal of different cultural and historical elements relevant to the cruise.
• The detailed illustration of the ship's itinerary and stops.
• The artistic depiction of marine and nautical themes.
• The inclusion of significant historical events and their locations.

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Cunard Caronia Coronation Cruise 1953
• When the map was made: 1953
• Mapmaker or publisher: DEB
• DEB is likely an artist or illustrator known for creating thematic and pictorial maps, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and historical information.
• Topics and themes shown on the map:
• The map focuses on the 1953 Coronation Cruise of the Cunard Caronia.
• It highlights significant routes, destinations, and historical landmarks associated with the cruise.
• Design or style of the map:
• The map features a pictorial and thematic style, with elaborate illustrations and vibrant colors.
• It includes artistic representations of landmarks, symbols, and routes.
• Historical significance or context of the map:
• The map commemorates the 1953 Coronation Cruise, an event marking the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
• It reflects the cultural and historical context of the early 1950s, showcasing the maritime tradition and the significance of royal events.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 90in (230cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about The Unique Maps Co.

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 4,000 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.