17th Century Maps

This is a hand-colored engraving of the province of Friesland in the Netherlands, created by the Swiss-born engraver and artist Matthäus Merian (1593–1650) and included in "Topograph...

Antique map titled 'Austriae Archiducatus pars superior in omnes ejusdem'. Spectacular large map of Upper and Lower Austria between Passau and Wien with figurative cartouche and armo...

City and Harbour of Rhodes – Olfert Dapper, 1688 Hand-Coloured Engraving Description: This historical hand-coloured copperplate engraving, titled “De hedendaegsche Stad en Haven van...

This is an antique county map of Hampshire. An English, framed atlas engraving of cartographic interest By Robert Morden, dating to the late 17th century and later. Superb lithogra...

Antique print titled 'Platte Grondt van s Keysers Hof in Pekin. Forme de la Cour Imperiale de Peking'. This print originates from 'Joan Nieuhof, Het Gezands...

A charming late 17th century French map with a very decorative title cartouche showing trumpet-blowing cherubs, by Allain Manneson Mallet (1630-1706), a well traveled military engine...

Antique map titled 'Comitatus Zelandiae (..)'. Detailed chart of the province Zeeland, The Netherlands, with details shown pictorially. Published by N. Visscher.

1640 map of Artois entitled "Artesia Comitatvs Artois," by Bleau Colored A-012. Detailed map of the northern province of Artois, France on the border with Belgium. Feature...

1640 Joan Bleau map entitled "Diocecese de rheims et le pais de rethel," Ric.a011 OAN BLAEU Diocecese de Rheims, et le pais de Rethel. Handcolored engraving, c.1640. ...

Antique Map of Franche-Comté – “La Franche Comté divisée en Trois Grands Bailliages” by Jaillot, 1681 This richly detailed antique map, titled “La Franche Comté divisée en Trois Gra...

1630 Pierre Petit map entitled "Description du Gouvernement de la Capelle," Ric0010 Pierre Petit was the son of a minor provincial official in Montluçon. The town, in the Auver...

1656 Jansson map Metz Region of France entitled "Territorium Metense." Ric0014 " Authentic" - Map of the historical region surrounding Metz, in Lorraine, France. Oriented with ...

1654 Joan Blaeu map of the Sutherland, Scotland, entitled "Southerlandia," Hand Colored Ric0007 Description: Lovely map centered on Sedan and D...

1633 map entitled "Beauvaisis Comitatus Belova Cium," Hand Colored Ric.0002 Description: Cartographer : - Hondius, Henricus 1587-1638 Artists and Engravers:Jodocus Hondius, one of the most notable engravers of his time. He is known for his work in association with many of the cartographers and publishers prominent at the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the seventeenth century. A native of Flanders, he grew up in Ghent, apprenticed as an instrument and globe maker and map engraver. In 1584, to escape the religious troubles sweeping the Low Countries at that time, he fled to London where he spent some years before finally settling in Amsterdam about 1593. In the London period he came into contact with the leading scientists and geographers of the day and engraved maps in The Mariner\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Mirrour, the English edition of Waghenaer\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Sea Atlas, as well as others with Pieter van den Keere, his brother-in-law. No doubt his temporary exile in London stood him in good stead, earning him an international reputation, for it could have been no accident that Speed chose Hondius to engrave the plates for the maps in The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine in the years between 1605 and 1610. In 1604 Hondius bought the plates of Mercator\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Atlas which, in spite of its excellence, had not competed successfully with the continuing demand for the Ortelius Theatrum Orbis Terrarum. To meet this competition Hondius added about 40 maps to Mercator\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s original number and from 1606 published enlarged editions in many languages, still under Mercator\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s name but with his own name as publisher. These atlases have become known as the Mercator/Hondius series. The following year the maps were reengraved in miniature form and issued as a pocket Atlas Minor. After the death of Jodocus Hondius the Elder in 1612, work on the two atlases, folio and miniature, was carried on by his widow and sons, Jodocus II and Henricus, and eventually in conjunction with Jan Jansson in Amsterdam. In all, from 1606 onwards, nearly 50 editions with increasing numbers of maps with texts in the main European languages were printed. Summaries of these issues are given under the entry for Gerard Mercator. Jodocus Hondius the Elder * 1588 Maps in The Mariner\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Mirrour (Waghenaer/Ashley) * 1590 World Map...

This is an antique county map of Shropshire. An English, framed atlas engraving by Richard Blome, dating to the 17th century and later. A treat for the collector or county native, ...

A large hand colored 17th century map of England and the British Isles by Frederick de Wit entitled "Accuratissima Angliæ Regni et Walliæ Principatus", published in Amsterdam in 1680. It is a highly detailed map of England, Scotland, the Scottish Isles...

1640 Willem Blaeu map entitled "Contado di molise et principato vltra," Colored Ric. a003 Measures: 38 x 49.6 cm and wide margins DBLAEU. Cou...

Large Vaugoundy Map of Flanders: Belgium, France, and the Netherlands Colored -1752 Ric.a002 Description: This is a 1752 Didier Robert de Vaugondy map of Flanders. The map de...

1633 map, entitled. "La douche de Berry," Hand Colored Ric.0005 Description: 1633 map, entitled "La douche de Berry,". Dimension: Paper: 23.3" W x 20.3" H (59 cm W x 51.7...

1627 Hondius map entitled "La Principaute d'Orange et Comtat de Venaissin," Original Hand-Colored Description: From Johannes Janssonius's Atlantis Maioris Appendix of 1630. ...

1656 map entitled "La Souverainete de Sedan et de Raucourt, et la Prevoste de Doncheri," Hand Colored Ric0004. Description: Lovely map centered on Sedan and Doncheri an...

British Island Group Map 1695 – Morden’s Smaller Islands of the British Ocean This rare and decorative late 17th-century map titled "The Smaller Islands in the British Ocean" was en...

Map of Switzerland by Justus Danckerts, Hand-Colored Engraving ca. 1690 This detailed and attractively hand-colored antique map titled *Helvetiae Rhaetiae et Valesiae, nec non parti...

Map of Brittany and Western France by Gerard Valk, circa 1700 This finely detailed antique map, titled *Praefectura Ducatus Britanniae, Quae Superior et Inferior*, was created aroun...

Map of Saintonge and Aunis, with Charente Coast and Cognac, 1665 This beautifully hand-colored antique map, titled *Xaintonge, avec Le Pays D’Avlnis* (Saintonge, with the Country of...

Bird’s-Eye View of Sloten in Friesland by Nicolaes van Geelkercken, ca. 1616 This captivating hand-colored engraving presents an early 17th-century bird’s-eye view of the fortified ...

Historical Map of the Margraviate of Brandenburg by Giacomo Cantelli da Vignola - 1687 This magnificent map, titled Marchesato, et Elettorato di Brandeburgo con una gran Porzione ...

A 17th century hand-colored map of North & South America entitled "Americae Descriptio" by the cartographer Johannes Jansson, published in Jansson's Atlas Minor in Amsterdam in 1628....

Title: Territorium Francofurtens – Moses Pitt’s 17th-Century Map of Frankfurt Description: This rare 17th-century map, titled Territorium Francofurtens, was published by Moses ...

Title: 17th-Century Antique Map of Jiangxi Province, China – "Kiangsi" by Blaeu, Detailed and Vibrantly Colored Description: This detailed 17th-century map of Jiangxi Province, historically referred to as "Kiangsi," was created by Johannes Blaeu and published in 1655 as part of the *Novus Atlas Sinensis*. Jiangxi, located in southeastern China, is known for its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and significant contributions to Chinese history. The map meticulously charts Jiangxi’s geography, including mountain ranges, rivers, and cities, with place names rendered in Latin. Poyang Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in China, is prominently depicted, emphasizing the region’s ecological and economic importance. The map also highlights key cities such as Nanchang, the provincial capital, which has long been a cultural and political center, and Jingdezhen, globally famous as the center of Chinese porcelain production. The decorative cartouche in the lower-right corner features traditional Chinese figures, adding cultural depth to the map. Blaeu’s craftsmanship is evident in the precise copperplate engraving and the vibrant hand-coloring, which enhances the boundaries and natural features, making this map both a functional document and a work of art. Condition: Nearly excellent. Sharp impression with vivid hand-coloring. Wide margins with minor age-toning appropriate for its age. Framing Tips: Use a neutral double mat and an ornate gilt or dark wood frame to highlight the map’s historical and artistic value. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the hand-coloring and intricate details. Jiangxi, historically referred to as "Kiangsi," is famous for its rich cultural history, stunning landscapes, and economic contributions. It has been a key region for porcelain production, with Jingdezhen renowned as the "Porcelain Capital" of the world. Poyang Lake, featured prominently on the map, is vital for fishing, transportation, and its ecological significance. The province’s location along the Gan River has historically made it an important transportation corridor. Nanchang, the provincial capital, is noted for its historical landmarks and political significance in modern Chinese history. Keywords include: antique map of Jiangxi, Kiangsi map, Poyang Lake, Jingdezhen porcelain, 17th-century China map...

Antique 17th-Century Map of Shaangxi Province, China – "Xensi" by Blaeu, Featuring Decorative Cartouches Description: This exquisite 17th-century map of Shaangxi Province, historically known as Xensi Province, is an exceptional work by Johannes Blaeu, one of the most celebrated mapmakers of the Dutch Golden Age. Originally published in Blaeu's groundbreaking 'Novus Atlas Sinensis', this map is a masterful blend of geography and artistry. Blaeu's atlas was created in collaboration with Martino Martini, a Jesuit missionary whose insights into China provided European audiences with unprecedented geographical accuracy. The map meticulously charts Shaangxi's mountains, rivers, mines, cities, and towns, with names rendered in Latin. It also features a detailed section of the Great Wall of China, a symbol of the region's historical significance. The artistry of this map is further enhanced by its elaborate cartouches. At the top, a Chinese warrior is beautifully illustrated, while the lower-left corner displays a deer, possibly a reference to the elusive Pere David deer...

Antique 17th-Century Map of Shanxi Province, China – "Xansi" by Blaeu, with Artistic Cartouches Description: This beautifully engraved map of Shanxi Province, historically referred to as "Xansi," was created by Johannes Blaeu in 1655 as part of his renowned *Novus Atlas Sinensis*. This atlas was the first comprehensive Western collection focused on Chinese geography, produced with the guidance of Jesuit missionary Martino Martini. Blaeu’s attention to detail and artistic flair are evident in this representation of Shanxi, highlighting mountains, rivers, cities, towns, and key geographic features. The Great Wall of China, an iconic landmark, is also depicted. The map includes decorative cartouches that enhance its aesthetic appeal. The upper-left corner features the map's title framed in an ornate design, while the lower-right corner showcases a seated figure in traditional Chinese attire alongside a small globe, symbolizing the merging of European cartographic expertise and Chinese knowledge. Each city and geographic feature is labeled in Latin, making it a fascinating historical artifact of cross-cultural exploration. This map was crafted using the copperplate engraving technique, prized for its ability to produce fine, precise details. It is further embellished with hand-coloring, which brings the landscape and decorative elements to life. Blaeu’s maps are highly regarded for their accuracy, artistry, and historical significance, making this piece a valuable collectible. Shanxi Province, historically referred to as "Xansi," is renowned for its historical significance, natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The region has been a crucial center of Chinese history and culture for centuries. Its name, meaning "West of the Mountains," refers to its location west of the Taihang Mountains. Shanxi has long been known for its coal resources, which have made it an important economic hub in modern times. Important places in Shanxi include Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient city walls and traditional Chinese architecture. The Yungang Grottoes, near Datong, are another UNESCO site, famous for their intricate Buddhist carvings and statues. Mount Wutai, one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, is a significant religious site that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Taiyuan, the provincial capital, is known for its historical sites, including the Jinci Temple. Shanxi is also known for its role in the early development of Chinese banking, particularly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Keywords include antique map of Shanxi, Xansi map, Pingyao, Yungang Grottoes, Mount Wutai, 17th-century China map...

Title: Rare Hand-Colored Map of Champagne and Brie by Frederik De Wit c. 1688 Description: This exquisite 17th-century map, "Champagne et Brie," beau...

Title: Picardy Map - Hand-Colored 17th-Century Engraving by Frederik De Wit c. 1688 Description: This beautifully detailed map, "Nova Picardiae Tabula," captures the Picardy region ...

Title: Hand-Colored 17th-Century Map of Île-de-France by Frederik De Wit c. 1688 Description: This striking map, "Le Gouvernement de l’Isle de France," showcases the Île-de-France r...

This original attractive 17th century hand-colored map of North Africa entitled "Nova Barbariae Descriptio" by Johannes Janssonius was published in Paris in 1635. It includes the Med...

This 1645 map, created by Willem Janszoon Blaeu, represents Styria (Steyrmark), a historical region in present-day Austria, located in the Alpine regions. Blaeu, one of the most sign...

This is an antique map of Nürnberg, titled "Territorium Norimbergense," created by Johannes Janssonius and published between 1645 and 1658. It is a copperplate engraving printed on p...

Early Woodcut Map of the Rhine River Region, "Die Dritte Tafel des Rheinstroms," ca. 16th Century This early woodcut map, titled "Die Dritte Tafel des Rheinstroms Innhaltend das Nid...

Title: Hand-Colored Map of Germany by Nicolas Sanson, 1648 This hand-colored map, titled "Allemagne," was created by Nicolas Sanson, a prominent 17th-century French cartographer and...

Title: Map of Groningen from "The Genealogy of the Illustrious Counts of Nassau" (1615) Description: This antique map, titled "Gronenga," offers a detailed depiction of the forti...

This map, created by Giacomo Cantelli da Vignola in 1695, represents the "General Government of Guyenne and Gascony" in southwest France. Cantelli da Vignola was a renowned Italian c...

Antique map titled 'Comitatus Marchia et Ravensberg'. This map depicts two historical counties of the Holy Roman Empire: Marks and Ravensberg. Major cities, towns, mountains, and riv...

Map of Northwestern Switzerland by Willem & Jan Blaeu (Circa 1650) This is a detailed map of Northwestern Switzerland, specifically depicting the region between Basel and Zurich, cr...

This detailed description enhances our understanding of the historical map titled "Landtcarte von dem Furstenthumbe Stormarn," a copper etching by Johannes Meier (Mejer), dated to 16...

A fascinating and richly detailed antique map of Cumberland County in northwest England, drawn and published by the celebrated English cartographer John Spe...

An original antique map from 1644, depicting the French provinces of Lyonnais, Beaujolais, Forez, and Mâconnais. In this map, north is oriented to the right, which is a cartographic ...

Fine topographical 17th century map by Iohan Peeters of Marsal and Maubert Fontaine in the Champagne-Ardennes Region of North Eastern France. Fabulous period engraving for a Wine Ce...

Fine topographical 17th century map by Iohan Peeters of the towns of Avignon and Frejus in the Cote d'Azur-Provence-Alpes Region of Southeastern France. Beautifully suited decorativ...

Antique map titled 'Berge Ducatus Marck Comitatus'. Original antique map of the region of Lennep, Blankenburg and Dortmund, Germany. Published by Hondius, circa 1644.

Antique map titled 'Marchionatus Brandenburgicus'. Original antique map of Brandenburg, with Königsberg and Stettin, Germany. Published by J. Janssonius, circ 1650. Jan Janssonius ...

Antique map titled 'Delflandia, Schielandia, et Insulae (..)'. Original antique map of Delfland, Schieland and islands of Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands. The 'Zuid-Hollandse Eilanden'...

Antique map titled 'S. Imperium Romano-Germanicum oder Teutschland mit seinen angrantzenden Königreichen und Provincien'. Original antique map of Germany...

Antique map titled 'Meklenburg Ducatus'. Attractive map of northern Germany, showing the area of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Published by J. Janssonius, circa 1630. Jan Janssonius (als...

Antique map titled 'Le Comte de Zeelande (..).' Detailed map of the province of Zeeland, The Netherlands. Details shown include fortified towns, roads, sandbanks and marshlands. Base...

Antique map titled 'Saxonia Superior'. Small original antique map of Upper Saxony, Germany. Upper Saxony (German: Obersachsen) was the name given to the majority of the German lands ...

Antique print China titled 'Anhing'. Old print depicting a view on the Chinese city of Anhing with its ramparts. This print originates from the Latin editio...

Antique map title 'Archiepiscopatus Coloniensis ducatibus Iuliacensi et Montensi (..)'. Original map of Cologne with the duchies of Jülich and Berg, Spa...

Antique map titled 'Parte meridionale degli Stati dell 'Elet di Colonia'. This map shows the course of the Rhine from Lahnstein to Rheinkassel and the area west to Aachen, Germany. W...

Very good, given the age. Center fold as issued with wide margins. Sharp print with beautiful old-fashioned colouring, carbon copy on verso. Paper in the margins somewhat browned.