Historical map of Scotland Circa 1960

This richly detailed Historical Map of Scotland, created around circa 1960 by Leslie George Bullock, stands as a celebrated example of mid-20th-century pictorial cartography. Bullock was a British illustrator and former civil servant turned cartographer, best known for producing decorative and engaging historical maps that blended geographic information with cultural storytelling.

At the center of the design is a finely illustrated map of Scotland, rendered in vivid color and populated with numerous vignettes depicting historic sites, famous battles, and regional landmarks. Castles, cathedrals, ships, and figures from Scottish history are woven directly into the geography, transforming the map into a visual narrative rather than a purely technical document. Surrounding the central image is an elaborate border of coats of arms, representing Scottish clans, noble families, and towns, celebrating the deep heraldic and regional traditions of Scotland.

Bullock worked extensively with the renowned Edinburgh publishing house John Bartholomew & Son, producing pictorial maps intended to be both educational and visually appealing. His style is characterized by clarity, charm, and an almost storybook quality, often designed to engage a broad public rather than specialist audiences. Among his best-known works are illustrated maps of London, England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland.

Born in London in 1895, Bullock began his career in the British civil service. His artistic abilities gradually led him toward mapmaking and illustration, where he developed a distinctive approach combining historical detail with accessible design. He was awarded an O.B.E. in 1947 for his wartime service before devoting more of his later career to publishing illustrated maps. He continued working in this field until his death in 1971.

Produced during a period of renewed interest in heritage, travel, and national identity, this Historical Map of Scotland functions both as an informative document and as a decorative work of graphic art. Its blend of cartography, heraldry, and historical imagery makes it a compelling collectible piece, appealing equally to map enthusiasts, historians, and lovers of Scottish culture.

Original Poster

Geography - Map - Scotland - United Kingdom

With the country's emblems

Printed by John Bartholomew & Son in Edinburgh

Good condition, creases, traces of tape