I’ve been captivated by history, particularly the Tudor period, for as long as I can remember and, to me, the antique maps, prints and books that I buy and sell are so much more than simply the paper they are printed on.
They are a tangible link between past and present: how exciting it is to imagine the hands they may have passed through on their voyage to us! I first fell in love with maps when a friend introduced me to The Map House in London. I was lucky enough to be able to work there for a short period, in 1988, which gave me an insight into the intricacies of buying and selling these fascinating documents.
I was fortunate to then build on this initial knowledge by working with many renowned map and print sellers, beginning with a channel crossing and positions at Louis Loeb-Larocque and Francois Girand in Paris.
I came back to the UK after this although, during my time with Clive A. Burden Ltd., in Hertfordshire, I found myself travelling extensively across Europe and the east coast of the U.S. I was involved in the sales of both maps and prints and also took an active role at the many map fairs I attended. As I worked, I also picked up basic skills in paper restoration and colouring and received a valuable understanding of the antique book trade. I feel fortunate that all of these appointments have enhanced my knowledge and deepened my fascination for the intriguing journeys made by these vintage pieces.
In 1996, I decided that it was time to take my expertise to a new level and my independent company, MapWoman, was born. In 2006, after spending three years in Vienna, I returned to the UK once more and settled in the beautiful town of Dorking, Surrey, where I have been located ever since.
If you would like further information on an antique map, book or print that you have seen on my website or if you are looking for something specific, please get in touch.
You can also find me at the ABA Book Fair, the London Map Fair and the etc fairs at the Royal National Hotel more: please see my homepage for forthcoming dates.
MapWoman: Own a Piece of History
