The Empire on Which the Sun Never Sets Art Print

This striking 1886 map by Walter Crane, based on a concept by John Charles Ready Colomb, serves as both an artistic masterpiece and imperial propaganda. British territories are boldly marked in pink, reinforcing the empire’s vast reach. Inset maps add detail, but the true focus is the allegorical figures framing the composition.

Britannia sits enthroned at the bottom, surrounded by symbols of the empire’s wealth—soldiers, merchants, and exoticized depictions of colonized peoples. Above, figures of "Freedom," "Fraternity," and "Federation" attempt to justify British rule as a force for progress.

A leading figure of the Arts and Crafts movement, Crane brings his signature decorative style to this work, blending ideology with artistry. More than a historical document, this map reflects the power dynamics of its time, offering a lens into the narratives that sustained British imperialism.

These prints are printed on a fine quality ivory paper.

These are reproductions of old illustrations & in most cases will have the same imperfections as the original.