A map of the Tube in 1908 before Beck’s innovations.
Stretching into the suburbs, it connects a vast and diverse metropolis.
Since 1863, theLondon Undergroundhas been trendsetting in the transportation world as the first subway system.
A map of the Tube in 1908 before Beck’s innovations. (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
His intriguing archives are now on exhibit and for sale atThe Map Housein London.
London-native Harry Beck worked for London Transport as a young man.
Instead of realism, it had the simple schematic approach of an electrical diagram.
Lines of different colors with circular stations criss-crossed in a readable format.
Nowadays, similar maps can be found in many cities, easily guiding passengers from one site to another.
It continues to inspire designers and artists, including a recent viralcircular versioncreated by a professor.
The ways in which we visualize space continue to evolve, heavily influenced by the work of Beck.
This will be the largest-ever display of Beck’s work, which will also be up for sale.
Late British designer Harry Beck created the original London Underground map in 1933.
His archive is now for sale through The Map House.
