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This pictorial map of Alaska, created by artist Kleng Rude, celebrates the territory's admission as the 49th state of the United States in 1959. It is a vibrant and detailed illustration that highlights significant historical events, cultural elements, and the diverse wildlife of the region.

The central focus of the map is the richly detailed and colorful depiction of Alaska's vast landscape. The map features various geographic regions, major cities, and landmarks. The artwork is embellished with numerous caricatures and symbols that represent the state's natural resources, wildlife, and cultural heritage.  The map is richly populated with illustrations of Alaska's diverse wildlife, including polar bears, moose, caribou, and various species of fish and birds. Each animal is carefully drawn to reflect the rich biodiversity of the state. The map also highlights Alaska's natural resources, such as gold, oil, and timber, indicating the economic significance of these assets. A prominent feature in the map is the totem pole, representing Alaska's indigenous cultures. This cultural icon stands out in the middle of the map, emphasizing the importance of Native American heritage in the state's identity.

The inset vignettes include:

1. Vitus Bering (1741):

   • Located in the upper left corner, this vignette commemorates Vitus Bering, the Danish explorer who first sighted Alaska. The illustration shows Bering aboard his ship, reflecting his historic expedition.

2. First Settlement (1784):

   • Below Bering's vignette, this scene depicts the first settlement in Alaska, established by Russian traders. It shows a small settlement with log cabins, highlighting the early Russian influence in the region.

3. Purchase of Alaska (1867):

   • In the lower left corner, this vignette portrays U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward, who orchestrated the purchase of Alaska from Russia. The scene depicts Seward examining a globe, symbolizing the strategic importance of the acquisition.

4. Gold Rush (1897):

   • Positioned in the upper right corner, this vignette illustrates the Klondike Gold Rush, which brought thousands of prospectors to Alaska in search of fortune. It captures the excitement and chaos of this significant event in Alaskan history.

5. Statehood (1959):

   • The lower right corner features a scene of Alaska's admission to the Union. It shows the signing of the statehood proclamation, with Alaskan and American flags symbolizing the union.

This map represents the first state of Kleng Rude's map, which was later reissued in 1964. The reissue may have included updates or additional elements, but this original version remains a vibrant celebration of Alaska's entry into the United States.

Overall, Kleng Rude's pictorial map of Alaska is not only a beautiful piece of art but also a rich historical document that captures the essence of Alaska's journey to statehood and its unique natural and cultural heritage. ​