Printed documents of all sorts have allowed for the circulation of information and images around the world. The ease with which they can be reproduced means that printed documents related to the maritime world are often found. These range from engravings showing ships, naval battles or views of ports to scenes from everyday life, official publications or illustrations from newspapers or magazines. The Maritime Museum of Barcelona preserves many documents that provide information on the maritime world, often with pictorial information on vessels or historical events. These images were essential for transmitting visual information in the days before photography. A significant number represent views of Barcelona from the 17th-19th century.
We can find a wide range of engraving techniques and coloured documents in varied formats, but all share a significant visual force, with many portraying the maritime life of the past. Especially worth noting are the advertising posters from shipping lines or tourist cruises.
