This striking Art Deco pictorial map, This World of Ours: Showing the New National Boundaries, reflects the optimism of the United States in the late 1920s, a period marked by economic prosperity and the idealistic hope for a peaceful future following the end of World War I. The map features a prominent Biblical quotation from Isaiah beneath a white dove: "Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more," symbolizing a collective yearning for enduring global peace. Surrounding the map are the flags of 52 nations, with the United States flag notably positioned at the center top, signifying the nation's perceived role as a leader in the new world order. The inclusion of Germany's flag, notably placed just three flags to the left of the U.S., underscores the ongoing geopolitical shifts following the war.
The map itself is presented in a double hemisphere format, with continents colored in pink and delineated national borders that capture the redefined geopolitical landscape of the era. Countries and oceans are labeled in a calligraphic style that evokes early cartographic traditions, complemented by small illustrations of sailing ships and sea creatures in the oceans, which blend antiquarian aesthetics with contemporary elements, including a modern airplane. The two hemispheres are framed by an arrangement of national flags, artistically rendered as if hanging on a rectangular frame, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of nations in the post-war period.
A further visual narrative is provided by a broader border of black and white line drawings, illustrating a timeline of human progress from prehistory to the modern era, rendered in an operatic, Baroque style reminiscent of the works of Thomas Hart Benton. This border begins at the top center with scenes of prehistoric cave dwellers and dinosaurs, progressing clockwise through pivotal historical epochs: the construction of the Egyptian pyramids, ancient Greek figures, Roman gladiators, and medieval knights labeled "Chivalry." Columbus’ voyage is depicted between the two hemispheres, with a scene of his encounter with indigenous peoples of the New World, followed by the Pilgrims, Pioneers, and ultimately, "Today," which features modern innovations such as the airplane, industrial workers, and a family gazing towards a rising sun, symbolizing hope and progress.
James Henry Daugherty, an acclaimed American illustrator known primarily for his children's books, provides the artistic vision for this work, likely originally conceived with young audiences in mind. The map's publication in February 1929 coincides with a period of American economic optimism, just months before the onset of the Great Depression. Despite its historic and artistic merit, little is known about the publisher, "The Historical Map Society, Times Building, New York," beyond its association with this map, adding a layer of mystery to this evocative depiction of the interwar world. This map not only captures the spirit of its time but also serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of national boundaries and the enduring human aspiration for peace and progress.