已有古代地图编目和图录体现了研究者筚路蓝缕开辟地图学史研究领域的努力,但对地图的分类值得推敲。这些分类多基于现代地图学标准,只关注现实世界的地图(地理图),忽视观念世界地图,对地图物质形态的分类更少措意,至少造成两方面损失: 或遗漏反映某一地区或人群空间认知的地图史料,或错失比图面信息更为可靠的地图断代方式。地图传统与地图文化的构建须依赖对单个地图作品的恰当分类。

The existing cataloging and compilation of ancient maps have showcased the pioneering efforts of researchers in the field of cartographic history. However, the classification of these maps warrants further scrutiny. Current classifications are largely based on modern cartographic standards, which tend to focus on maps of the real world — geographic maps — while overlooking maps that represent the conceptual or metaphysical world. Moreover, there is a scarcity of attention given to the classification based on the materiality of maps. This oversight leads to at least two significant losses: the potential omission of cartographic materials that reflect the spatial perceptions of specific regions or groups, and the missed opportunity to identify a more reliable method for dating maps than what can be gleaned from the map’s textual and visual information alone. The establishment of map traditions and cultures is contingent upon the proper classification of individual map works.