New world paper

You're referring to the New World Paper, also known as the Vinland Map!

The New World Paper is a medieval parchment that is believed to be a 15th-century map of the world, created by an unknown cartographer. It is considered one of the most important and intriguing maps in the history of cartography.

Here are some key facts about the New World Paper:

  1. Age: The map is estimated to be around 600 years old, dating back to the 15th century.
  2. Authorship: The map is anonymous, and its creator is unknown.
  3. Content: The map depicts the world as known to Europeans during the Middle Ages, including the Old World (Europe, Asia, and Africa) and the New World (the Americas).
  4. Innovative features: The map shows the New World as a separate continent, which was a groundbreaking concept at the time. It also includes several innovative features, such as a depiction of the Pacific Ocean and the presence of the "Isles of the West" (which may refer to the Caribbean).
  5. Controversy: The authenticity of the map has been disputed by many scholars, with some arguing that it is a forgery created in the 20th century. However, most experts believe that it is a genuine medieval map.
  6. Provenance: The map was purchased by the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library at Yale University in 1973.

The New World Paper is a fascinating artifact that provides valuable insights into the cartographic knowledge and understanding of the world during the Middle Ages.