Maps by different mapmakers are often bound together in such atlases. Indicates something done at about the time the map was published, for example, contemporary coloring. Used to characterize hand-made paper retaining the original rough edges as produced by the papermaker. Most maps have the deckled edge trimmed off during binding, and deckle-edged maps are considered quite desirable. A decorative map has definite aesthetic appeal.
Decorative elements can include animals, sea serpents, mermaids, scrollwork, cherubs, costumes, etc.
Many consider the 17 th century to be the peak period of decorative mapmaking. Cut into sections. This is often done with large maps, which are cut into rectangles and pasted to cloth so that they can easily be folded down to the size of a single section for easy carrying and storage. An edition of a map is determined only by the imprint. If the imprint is changed, then there is a new edition.