The Land of Make Believe - 516 Piece Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle

The Land of Make Believe - 516 Piece Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle

$129.95
This fanciful map adorned the walls of many children's classrooms and bedrooms in the 1940s and 1950s.  The map illustrates...
  • Categories: 20th Century, 500+ Pieces, Father's Day, Level 3, Mother's Day, New Arrivals, Puzzles For Her, Puzzles For Him, Summer, Vintage Art Posters
  • Type: 500+ Piece Puzzle

This fanciful map adorned the walls of many children's classrooms and bedrooms in the 1940s and 1950s. 

The map illustrates whimsical scenes from fairytales and nursery rhymes set in a surreal, imaginary world.

It provides over 30 lovely vignettes of many of literature's most beloved children's books, including Little Red Riding Hood, Jack & the Beanstalk, Peter Rabbit, The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Hansel and Gretel, the Wizard of Oz, and Peter Pan.

It was created in the 1920s by the Czech-born artist Jaro Hess and was shown at a children's exhibition during Chicago's 1933 Century of Progress World Exhibition.

Hess's work depicts a fantastic wonderland including castles from every culture and his imagination. We see such familiar figures as Jack climbing the Bean Stalk, the cow jumping over the moon, the Emerald City of Oz, and Hansel and Gretel with the Gingerbread House. 

He was a painter and landscape designer who spent much of his career in Grand Rapids, Michigan, after emigrating to the United States in 1910. Hess never achieved commercial success during his lifetime, but this fantastic poster has inspired many children and adults over the years. The Simpson's creator Matt Groening has said it gave him the idea for his animated series Disenchantment.

During the 1950s, the image was modified to change the figure of "The Wandering Jew" to simply "The Wanderer."

The perfect gift for wooden jigsaw puzzle lovers and fantasy art fans, this traditional adult wooden jigsaw puzzle can be done repeatedly. Our wooden jigsaw puzzle artists have included many nursery rhyme and fairytale whimsywooden jigsaw puzzle  pieces that match the artwork's theme, and we have integrated them in ways that will delight and surprise you as you put the wooden jigsaw puzzle together. 

  • Includes a Bonus Poster to Guide Assembly
  • Number of Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces: 516
  • Completed Puzzle Size: 18” X 12"
  • Artist: Jaro Hess
  • Serial #: NP23-516-614
  • Wood Thickness: 4mm
  • Cut Style: Victorian
  • Difficulty: Level 3
  • Made in the USA
  • Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle for Adults

Why Choose a 500-Piece Puzzle from Nautilus?

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A 500-piece puzzle strikes the ideal balance between immersive challenge and satisfying completion. Our 500-piece jigsaw puzzles feature fine art designs, handcrafted wooden pieces, and whimsical figural cuts that elevate every session into a true tactile and visual experience. It’s the perfect step up for puzzlers who want more complexity without the time required for 1000-piece puzzles.

Why Are 500-Piece Puzzles the Perfect Balance of Challenge and Fun?

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500-piece puzzles offer just the right mix of complexity and accessibility. They’re large enough to deliver a meaningful, multi-hour challenge yet manageable enough to complete in a weekend. With intricate artwork, whimsical pieces, and precise wooden cuts, Nautilus 500-piece jigsaw puzzles keep puzzlers engaged without feeling overwhelmed, making them ideal for focused relaxation and artistic enjoyment.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a 500-Piece Puzzle?

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Most puzzlers complete a wooden 500-piece puzzle in 4 to 6 hours, depending on image complexity and experience level. It's an ideal project for a cozy weekend or multi-session enjoyment, offering deep focus and relaxation in every piece.

Are 500-Piece Puzzles for Adults Only?

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While our 500-piece puzzles are designed for adults, teens who enjoy fine art and a moderate challenge will also appreciate them. Each puzzle features intricate imagery, thoughtful cuts, and premium craftsmanship—not suitable for young children but ideal for focused, mature puzzlers.

What Themes Are Available in the 500-Piece Collection?

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From vintage holiday scenes to modern art, impressionist art, and travel-inspired designs, our 500-piece jigsaw puzzles offer diverse visual experiences. Every puzzle is a curated celebration of storytelling and artistry.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a 500-Piece Puzzle?

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When selecting a 500-piece puzzle, consider the artwork style, color complexity, and your personal skill level. Start by thinking about the artwork that inspires you; bold colors, fine detail, or themed scenes can all affect difficulty and enjoyment. Also, consider your puzzling style: do you like a visual challenge or a more relaxing pace? All Nautilus 500-piece puzzles feature whimsical cuts, premium wood, and collectible packaging, so no matter the image, you're guaranteed a beautiful and rewarding experience.