Map of Naggaroth and the island of Ulthuan from the Warhammer Fantasy
Artist: Angela Gubert Source: Angela Gubert
The Grand Cartography of Naggaroth and Ulthuan: A Study in Contrast and Craftsmanship
The Grand Design and Artistic Details
This beautifully illustrated map of Naggaroth and Ulthuan, crafted by Angela Gubert on a private commission for PJ Hido, captures the grandeur and mystery of the Warhammer Fantasy universe. The piece is designed in a traditional cartographic style, featuring rich hand-drawn elements and an aged parchment texture that gives it the look of an ancient relic. The border is adorned with heraldry and intricate decorative elements that hint at the factions and cultures of this world. The use of vibrant blues for the seas and detailed greens and browns for the landmasses creates a striking contrast, emphasizing the depth and scale of the continents. Various settlements, fortresses, and ruins are meticulously illustrated, each telling a silent story of conquest, magic, and war.
Naggaroth – The Dark Continent
Naggaroth, the grim and foreboding homeland of the Dark Elves, dominates the left side of the map. Its landscape is a jagged and cruel expanse, filled with towering black spires, frozen tundras, and deep forests that whisper of lurking horrors. The iconic cities of the Druchii, including the twisted towers of Naggarond and the deadly port of Clar Karond, stand out as dark bastions of power. The placement of waterways, mountains, and forests reflects the perilous nature of this land, reinforcing the narrative of a cruel and unyielding kingdom ruled by Malekith, the Witch King. The chilling atmosphere is further accentuated by the sharp and almost chaotic arrangement of settlements, mirroring the treacherous nature of the Dark Elves themselves.
Ulthuan – The Jewel of the Elves
To the east, the map showcases Ulthuan, the enchanted island-home of the High Elves, depicted as a near-perfect circle with a lush and orderly layout. The inner and outer seas, surrounding the verdant lands and elegant cities, reflect the meticulous and mystical nature of the Asur. The towering spires of Lothern and the great halls of Saphery stand as symbols of wisdom and power, while the island’s enchanted forests and crystal-clear waters enhance its aura of serenity. The contrast between the rigid, brooding design of Naggaroth and the harmonious, flowing depiction of Ulthuan speaks volumes about the inherent differences between the Dark Elves and their noble kin. The addition of decorative nautical elements, such as compass roses, ships, and sea creatures, further immerses the viewer in this fantastical world, making it feel like an artifact from the Warhammer universe itself.