17th Century Maps

Antique Map of Rhodesia & British Central Africa – Published by George Philip & Son, 1895 This detailed antique map titled "Rhodesia & British Central Africa" was published in 1895 ...

Holy Land Map of the Twelve Tribes of Israel – Sanson, Hand Colored, 1696 Description: This impressive and richly hand-colored map of the Holy Land depicts the biblical territories ...

This map covers the northwestern coast of Greece and part of present-day Albania. The map was drawn by Johannes Wilhelm Laurenberg, a mathematician and historian who produced several...

Untitled antique print of a Japanese noblewoman transported in a pushed rickshaw or jinrikisha. This print originates from Arnoldus Montanus' "Gedenkwaerdige Gesantschappen der O...

Palermo – 1620 Braun & Hogenberg Bird’s-Eye Map of Palermo, Sicily This beautifully detailed bird’s-eye view of Palermo, Sicily, was created by Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg aro...

Hellas seu Graecia Universa is a finely detailed late-17th-century map of Greece and the Aegean world, issued by Philipp Cluver around 1697 (possibly 1694). The map was published in ...

An antique map of the Tuscan city of Pisa engraved for The 'Itinerarium Italiæ Nov-antiquæ' by Matthäus Merian the Elder and printed in 1640....

Antique map titled 'Tino.' This original antique map shows the island of Tinos, Greece. Source unknown, to be determined. Artists and Engravers: Made by 'Olfert Dapper' after an a...

A rare and important 17th Century Italian Engraving of Willem Blaeu's Great Wall Map of America, "America quarta pars orbis quam plerunq, nuvum orbem apellitant primo detecta est ann...

Antique map titled 'Biscaia, Guipiscoa, Navarra et Asturias de Santillana'. Charming map of Northeastern Spain with the areas of Pamplona and Valladolid. This map originates from...

Antique map titled 'Hellas seu Graecia Universa' Detailed map of Greece, with Crete, the Aegean Islands, and part of Turkey. With two cartouches, compass rose and scale. Carolus Alla...

Old 17th century miniature antique map of 'Cambaia' , from the 1616 edition of Jadocus Hondius Atlas by Petrus Bertius. Original copperplate engraving with hand coloring. Carto...

Antique map titled 'Royaume de Bourgogne sous la seconde Race des Roys de France'. Detailed miniature map of the Burgundy region, France. Originates from Mallet's 'Description de l'U...

Antique Map of Slavonia, Croatia, Bosnia and Dalmatia by Janssonius, circa 1640 This elegant and detailed map titled Sclavonia, Croatia, Bosnia cum Dalmatiae Parte was published by ...

Rare Antique Map of the Americas with Island California by Justus Danckerts, ca. 1696 This exceptional antique map titled Novissima et Accuratissima Totius Americae Descriptio per I...

Antique map titled 'Novissima Totius Terrarum Orbis Tabula, Auctore Nicolao Visscher'. Gorgeous example of Nicholas Visscher's World map, which appeared...

Antique print titled 'Gebergte van Sang-Won-Hab'. Old print depicting the Sang-Won-Hab mountains (China) with many ships on the river between the mountains. This print originates fro...

This rare and fascinating map, titled "Atlantis Insula a Nicolao Sanson Antiquitati Restituta" by Guillaume Sanson, presents an unusual interpretation of the Western Hemisphere, comb...

Caen – Antique Hand-Coloured Normandy Town Plan Engraving (1666) This 17th-century copper engraving offers a finely detailed early plan of Caen, published in Antwerp in 1666 for the...

Cherbourg – Antique Hand-Coloured French Coastal Town Engraving (1666) This 17th-century copper engraving presents a finely detailed early plan of Cherbourg, published in Antwerp in...

Dieppe – Antique Hand-Coloured French Coastal Town Engraving (1666) This charming 17th-century copper engraving presents an early bird’s-eye plan of the fortified port town of Diepp...

1640 Antique Map of North Africa 'Nova Barbariae Descriptio' by Johannes Janssonius This antique map titled Nova Barbariae Descriptio*, published by Johannes Janssonius around 1640,...

Antique map titled 'Leoverdia.' Bird's-eye view plan of Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands. With key to locations and coats of arms. Text in Dutch on verso. This plan origina...

Holy Land Divided Among the Twelve Tribes – Six-Part Map by Jan Jansson and Georgius Hornius, circa 1658 This rare and impressive six-sheet engraved map of the Holy Land was publish...

Title: Mauritius, Banda Islands, Ternate and Tuban – Orlers, Leiden 1610 Antique print from Jan Janszoon Orlers’ Den Nassauschen Lauren-Crans, published in Leiden in 1610 and engrav...

17th Century Map of Southern Portugal by Sanson – Hand-Colored, 1679 This stunning 1679 map of Portugal offers a captivating glimpse into the past, showcasing the country's geograph...

Antique print, titled: 'De Stadt Saccai. La Ville de Saccai.' - ('The City Saccai'). This plate shows a view of Sakai in the Osaka Prefecture, Japan. Sakai has been one of the la...

Imaginary Plan of Jerusalem by Blome after Villalpando, 1689 This impressive antique engraving presents an imaginary plan of Jerusalem by Richard Blome, published in 1689. The engra...

Ancient Map of Palestine or the Holy Land by D'Anville (1767) This detailed map, created by the renowned French cartographer Jean Baptiste Bourguignon d'Anville in 1767, depicts the...

The map of Batavia (modern-day Jakarta) from 1681, attributed to Frederick de Wit holds significant historical importance for several reasons: Historical Context 1. Colonial Era: This map dates back to the Dutch colonial era when Batavia served as the administrative and commercial hub of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The VOC was a powerful trading entity that played a crucial role in the global spice trade and colonization in Southeast Asia. 2. Strategic Importance: Batavia was strategically located on the northwestern coast of Java, providing the Dutch with a critical base for their maritime operations. The city became the center of Dutch political and military control in the region. Cartographic Significance 1. Detailed Urban Layout: The map meticulously details the layout of Batavia, including its fortifications, canals, streets, and significant buildings. This level of detail provides insights into the urban planning and architectural styles of the period. 2. Military Engineering: The fortifications shown on the map illustrate the advanced military engineering techniques used by the Dutch to protect their valuable colony. The walls, bastions, and moats indicate the strategic considerations taken to defend against potential invasions. 3. Maritime Activity: The depiction of ships in the harbor highlights Batavia's role as a major maritime center. The VOC's fleets were essential for trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia, making Batavia a crucial node in global commerce. Artistic and Cultural Value 1. Artistic Elements: The decorative elements, such as the lion holding a shield and the intricate cartouches, reflect the artistic trends of Dutch Golden Age cartography. These embellishments were not only informative but also served to display the cartographer's skill and the map's prestige. 2. Cultural Exchange: Maps like this one provide evidence of cultural exchange between the Dutch and the indigenous populations of Java. The blending of Dutch and local influences can be seen in various aspects of the map and the architecture of the city. Rarity and Preservation 1. Rarity: Maps from the 17th century, especially those in good condition, are relatively rare and highly valued by collectors and historians. Each map provides a unique snapshot of historical geography and urban development. 2. Preservation of History: This map serves as a historical document, preserving knowledge about Batavia's cityscape, infrastructure, and colonial governance. It helps historians and scholars understand the socio-economic and political dynamics of the period. Conclusion The map of Batavia from 1681 is special due to its detailed depiction of one of the most important colonial cities in Southeast Asia during the Dutch Golden Age. It reflects the strategic, economic, and cultural significance of Batavia, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the history of Dutch colonialism and its global impact. The map's artistry and precision make it an important artifact in the history of cartography. --------------- The map is an original and historical map of Batavia (present-day Jakarta) on the island of Java, dated 1681. There are several details to consider when evaluating its origins and possible authorship: 1. **Style and Detail**: The intricate details and style are reminiscent of maps created by Frederick de Wit, a prominent Dutch cartographer and engraver of the 17th century. He was known for his detailed city maps and sea charts. 2. **Lack of Signature**: The absence of "F. de Wit, Excudit" could indicate either an omission or a different engraver. However, it is essential to note that some maps from that period were reproduced or copied by other engravers and cartographers. This was not uncommon, as map-making was a collaborative effort, and copies of popular maps were frequently made. 3. **Map Characteristics**: - The depiction of ships and the detailed fortifications are typical of Dutch cartography in the late 17th century. - The decorative elements, such as the lion holding a shield, are also characteristic of Dutch map engravers. 4. **Other Possible Engravers**: While Frederick de Wit is a strong candidate, other notable Dutch engravers from that period include Joan Blaeu and Willem Janszoon Blaeu. They also produced highly detailed maps and could potentially be the creators or inspirers of this map. To determine the precise authorship, you might consider: - **Comparing** this map with other confirmed works of Frederick de Wit and his contemporaries to identify stylistic similarities and differences. - **Historical Records**: Consulting historical records or publications related to Dutch cartography in the 17th century might provide more context or even direct references to this particular map. If you have access to additional details or higher-resolution images of specific sections, it might help further pinpoint the map's origin and authorship. ------------- Frederick de Wit (1629–1706) was a prominent Dutch cartographer, engraver, and publisher known for his detailed and decorative maps, atlases, and globes. He played a significant role in the Dutch Golden Age of cartography, contributing to the wealth of geographic knowledge and artistic achievement during this period. Here are key aspects of his life and work: ### Biography - **Early Life**: Frederick de Wit was born in Gouda, Netherlands, in 1629. Little is known about his early years, but he moved to Amsterdam, the epicenter of Dutch cartography, in the mid-17th century. - **Career Beginnings**: De Wit began his career as an engraver and publisher, initially producing maps that were reissues of earlier works by other cartographers, such as Joan Blaeu and Willem Janszoon Blaeu. ### Contributions to Cartography - **Mapmaking**: De Wit was known for his meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair. He produced a wide range of maps, including world maps, regional maps, city plans, and maritime charts...

This striking original antique map, titled "Rhenus Fluviorum Europae celeberrimus," showcases the historic Rhine River region, a vital artery of European trade, culture, and history....

Map of Le Maine by H. Hondius, 1633, Hand-Colored, Decorative and Historic This rare and beautifully executed antique map titled 'Le Maine' was published in 1633 by Henricus Hondius...

Blaeu Map of Karst, Carniola, Istria, and Trieste, circa 1640 This is an original antique map titled “Karstia, Carniola, Histria et Windorum Marchia,” published by Willem Blaeu in Amsterdam circa 1640. The map depicts the historical regions of Karst (Karstia), Carniola (modern-day Slovenia), Istria (the peninsula shared by Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy), and the Windic March, a medieval border territory. The engraving shows detailed place names, rivers, mountains, and settlements across present-day Slovenia, northeastern Italy, and northwestern Croatia. The Gulf of Trieste is prominently illustrated at the lower left, with Trieste labelled and coastal settlements clearly indicated. The Adriatic Sea is elegantly engraved with stippled waters, a compass rose, rhumb lines, and a sailing ship, enhancing its decorative maritime appeal. In the upper left corner is a beautifully designed cartouche bearing the title within a scrollwork frame with foliage and drapery motifs. The lower left includes a mileage scale in Italian miles and a dedication to Guiljelmus Blaeu excudit, confirming its publication from the Blaeu workshop. Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571–1638) was one of the leading Dutch cartographers of the early 17th century, succeeded by his son Joan Blaeu. Their maps were known for their precision, aesthetic engraving, and clarity, making the Blaeu atlases the most prestigious publications of the Dutch Golden Age. Condition: Good condition. Strong, clean impression on laid paper with wide margins. Light age toning and faint foxing in blank margins, minor creasing along the original centre fold as issued. No tears or repairs noted. Fully suitable for framing. Framing tips: Frame this map in a thin black, walnut, or gilt frame to enhance its historic character. Use an off-white or cream archival mat to highlight the detailed engraving and preserve the sheet edges. UV-protective glazing is recommended to protect the paper and ensure its clarity and integrity over time. Keywords: Here are short keyword blocks formatted for direct copy-pasting into your website SEO or 1stdibs tags: karst map, carniola map, istria map, trieste map, blaeu map, willem blaeu, 17th century map, dutch cartography, antique balkan map, slovenia antique map, croatia antique...

1683 Map of Japan Isles by Mallet – Decorative Miniature Map This is an original antique map titled “Isles du Japon,” created by Alain Manesson Mallet and published in Paris in 1683...

Antique world map titled 'Mappe-Monde dressee sur les Observations de Mrs. de l'Academie Royale des Sciences (..)'. Beautiful original antique world map...

Rare 1699 Map of the Failed Scottish Colony of Caledonia in Panama This scarce and historically fascinating map, titled 'The Scots Settlement in America or New Caledonia A.D. 1699',...

This 1667 map titled "Patriarchatus Constantinopolitani Geographica Descriptio" was crafted by renowned French cartographer Melchior Tavernier, who was a prominent map engraver during the 17th century. This rare and historically significant map focuses on the territories under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Patriarchate of Constantinople, one of the most important centers of the Eastern Orthodox Church. It covers regions around the Black Sea (Pontus Euxinus), parts of Greece, and adjacent areas in Asia Minor and the Balkans, which were historically vital during the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The map is filled with ancient place names, making it a valuable resource for both historical and cartographic enthusiasts. Key Features: - Antique ecclesiastical map illustrating the influence of the Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople in the 17th century. - Features beautifully detailed ancient coastlines, rivers, and terrains, providing a comprehensive geographical view of the region. - Rich with historic place names - like Byzantium, Nicomedia, Nicaea, Cyzicus, Bithynia, Pontus, Macedonia, and Thrace - that date back to the classical era, offering insights into the ancient geography of the eastern Mediterranean. - A finely engraved strapwork cartouche in the lower right corner with Baroque-style decoration, featuring two putti (cherubic figures) – a hallmark of 17th-century map art. - The map extends to include the Mediterranean Sea (Mare Mediterraneum) to the south and the Black Sea to the north, highlighting its ecclesiastical and geopolitical significance. - Original hand coloring may still be present, enhancing the decorative appeal for collectors of antique maps. This rare map offers a unique perspective on the religious influence and historical geography of the Eastern Mediterranean during the late 17th century. It would appeal to collectors interested in: - **Byzantine history** - **Ottoman Empire** - **Eastern Orthodox Church** - **Antique cartography...

Antique map titled 'Ducatus Holsatiae Nova Tabula'. Original old map of the Duchy of Holstein, the northernmost territory of the Holy Roman Empire, from the mid-17th Century. To the ...

Map of Blaisois by Janssonius, 1633, Decorative Antique Map of Loire Valley This finely detailed and colorfully embellished map titled 'Description du Blaisois' was published in 163...

Map of Cape Verde and the Mouth of the River Niger by Coronelli, 1691 This finely engraved map, titled "Bocche del Fiume Negro et Isole di Capo Verde," was created in 1691 by Vincen...

This miniature map of the East Indies and Nova Guinea was created by Abraham Ortelius and published in 1601 as part of the "Epitome" by Giovanni Battista Vrients. It is a finely hand...

Antique Map: Cenomanorum Galliae regionis typus vulgo le Mans – Blaeu, circa 1640 This beautifully engraved and hand-colored map depicts the historical province of Maine in northw...

This antique map, titled 'Les Etats de la Couronne de Castille', represents the southern regions of the Crown of Castile, specifically the territories of Andalusia, Granada, and Murc...

Antique map titled 'Exactissima Tabula, qua tam Danubii Fluvii Pars Superior'. Detailed map covering the region of northern Italy, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. The course of th...

Antique map titled 'Novissima et Perfectissima Africae (..)'. Beautiful large map of Africa. This is the 3rd state of the map, with climate notation add...

Antique print China titled ‘Interior aulae Imperatoriae facies'. Antique print of the Imperial Palace in Peking, China. This print originates from ...

Antique map titled 'Natoliae sive Asia Minor'. Original old map of Turkey, Asia Minor and Cyprus. Includes a decorative cartouches, sailing ship, sea mon...

Antique map titled 'Ins. Ceilan quae incolis Tenarisin dicitur'. This exquisite, early map of Sri Lanka is shown with an unusual five-sided shape. North is oriented to the left by an...

Antique World Map with Astronomical Spheres by Pierre Mortier, Amsterdam, circa 1700 This fascinating antique world map titled "Carte générale du monde, ou description du monde terr...

1653 map entitled "La Souverainete de Sedan et de Raucourt, et la Prevoste de Doncheri," Ric0011 Description: Lovely map centered on Sedan and Doncheri and the Meuze River fr...

Rare Antique print, titled: 'Cangoxuma.' A stunning bird's eye view of the coastal city Cangoxuma (Kagoshima) in Japan. It shows several boats in the harbour, as well as the ligh...

Rhine River & Tributaries Antique Map by Willem Blaeu, c.1640 This spectacular mid-seventeenth-century copper-engraved map, titled in Latin “Rhenus Fluvio...

A detailed map of a region in eastern Germany. Cartouches depict coat of arms surrounded by cherubs. The map is fully engraved with towns, political boundaries, rivers and forests. P...

Antique map titled 'Indiae Orientalis, nec non Insularum Adiacentium Nova Descriptio.' The map centers on the Strait of Malacca and Malay Peninsula. It extends from India and the Mal...

Globe gore by Vincenzo Maria Coronelli shows the North Pole with the coasts of Canada, Greenland, Scandinavia and Siberia, and is decorated with pictorial scenes of bear, seal and wh...

Antique map titled 'Biscaia, Guipiscoa, Navarra et Asturias de Santillana'. Charming map of Northeastern Spain with the areas of Pamplona and Valladolid. This map originates from 'At...

Description: Antique map titled 'Novissima et Accuratissima Totius Russiae vulgo Muscoviae Tabula'. Antique map of Western Russia and Ukraine, published by Justus Danckerts. The ma...

Antique print with two views of Alexandria, Egypt. This print originates from 'Reizen van Cornelis de Bruyn, door de vermaardste deelen van Klein Asia, de eylanden Scio, Rhodus, Cypr...

Antique map titled 'Nieuwe Paskaert van de Kust van Genehoa (..)'. This attractive sea chart covers the western coast of Africa from Cape Blanco (Ras Nouadhibou) to Cape Verde (Dakar...

Antique print titled 'Slooten - Ylst - Worcum - Hinloopen'. Three plans and a bird's eye view on one sheet. The plans show the Frisian cities Sloten, IJlst, Workum and the view shows...