Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming, hand-drawn bird's-eye view of historic Annapolis, Maryland, rendered in a whimsical pen-and-ink style. This large-scale 24x32 inch print captures the city's colonial layout, the State House, and the bustling waterfront with a playful, illustrative touch.
Story
Created in 1975, this map captures Annapolis just before the 1976 Bicentennial fever swept the nation. The artist, James Richardson, famously inserted himself into the scene, floating in a hot air balloon labeled 'L'Artiste Richardson' in the upper left corner. It is a time capsule of the city's architecture and maritime spirit during a period of intense historical preservation.
Maker / Origin
James Richardson was a noted local illustrator and cartographer in the Maryland area during the 1970s and 80s. He was known for his 'pictorial maps' which combined rigorous geographic layout with whimsical, storybook-style details. His work often celebrated the Chesapeake Bay region's unique heritage and nautical lifestyle.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in good vintage condition with some minor age-toning (yellowing) consistent with its 50-year age. There are no visible tears or heavy creases in the photos. Professional framing would significantly enhance its preservation and value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.