Rare Old Map of Italian East Africa (Ethiopia and Somalia) by Kalchschmidt, 1936: Addis Abeba, Mogadiscio, Colonialism

The "Africa Orientale Economica" map, crafted by the skilled E. Kalchschmidt in 1936, is a vivid portrayal of Italian East Africa during a pivotal moment in history. This map serves as a testament to Italy's imperial ambitions, capturing the economic opportunities envisioned by the colonial powers. Published by Officine Grafiche S.A. Parini Vanoni & C. for the Banca Populare di Milano, it reflects the geopolitical landscape and the allure of the region's abundant resources. The map's intricate details and thematic focus make it a fascinating artifact of its time.

E. Kalchschmidt's work on this map highlights the rich tapestry of natural resources that Italian East Africa promised. From gold and silver to coffee and cotton, the map is a detailed inventory of the region's wealth. The illustrations of animals and resources provide a pictorial insight into the land's potential, offering a glimpse into the economic strategies that fueled Italy's colonial pursuits. This map is not just a geographic representation but a narrative of ambition and opportunity.

The map's design is a visual feast, with its color-printed illustrations and thematic focus on economic potential. It features the regions of Somalia, Arrar, Galla-Sidamo, Addis-Abeba, Amhara, and Eritrea, each depicted with precision and artistry. The borders and territorial divisions are marked with dashed lines, symbolizing the colonial aspirations and the contested nature of these lands. The Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean are prominently displayed, underscoring the strategic importance of these waterways.

In addition to its economic focus, the map also captures the cultural and political climate of the time. It boldly proclaims titles such as "King of Italy and Emperor of Ethiopia," reflecting the imperial trappings assumed by the Italians. These titles, however, were not widely recognized beyond the Axis powers, adding a layer of intrigue and controversy to the map's narrative. This historical context enriches the map's significance, making it a compelling piece for collectors and historians alike.

The cities and towns depicted, such as Addis Abeba, Asmara, and Mogadiscio, are key to understanding the region's urban landscape during this era. Each city is a focal point of colonial administration and economic activity, offering a window into the daily life and governance of Italian East Africa. The map serves as a historical document, capturing the essence of a bygone era and the complex interplay of power, economy, and culture in this vibrant region.

Cities and towns on this map

• Ethiopia
• Addis Abeba
• Eritrea
• Asmara
• Somalia
• Mogadiscio

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustrations: Various animals depicted across the map, indicating wildlife in the region.
• Bodies of Water:
• Gulf of Aden
• Indian Ocean
• Borders: Dashed lines indicating territorial divisions.
• Inset Map: A small inset showing economic resources and their locations.

Historical and design context

• Creation Date: 1936
• Mapmaker/Publisher: E. Kalchschmidt, published by Officine Grafiche S.A. Parini Vanoni & C. for the Banca Populare di Milano.
• Themes and Topics:
• Italian imperial aspirations in East Africa.
• Economic opportunities, focusing on natural resources and agricultural products.
• Design/Style:
• Thematic and pictorial map with illustrations of animals and resources.
• Color-printed wall map, emphasizing economic potential.
• Historical Significance:
• Reflects Italian colonial ambitions and the establishment of Italian East Africa in 1936.
• Illustrates Italian titles and territorial claims not widely recognized outside the Axis powers.

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 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) 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.

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 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.