Late 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 ...

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...

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 ...

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

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...

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...

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

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 ...

Terra Sancta sive Promissionis, olim Palestina – hand-coloured copper-engraved map of the Holy Land by Frederic de Wit, Amsterdam, circa 1670 This impressive folio sheet, bearing th...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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',...

1692 Jacques Peeters Map: East Indies, Indonesia & Japan with Unique Inset This hand-colored map from 1692, created by Jacques Peeters, captures the islands of Indonesia, the Philippines, and features a unique inset of Japan. It closely resembles Nicolas de Fer's map and is primarily based on Sanson's influential maps. The map meticulously details cities, smaller settlements, rivers, mountain chains, and forests, offering a comprehensive view of the region's geography. The inset map of Japan stands out due to its distinctive shape and influences, reflecting different cartographic sources. Notable features include the marked equator and detailed latitude and longitude indications on the borders. The map measures 6.5 inches in width by 5.5 inches in height and is in excellent condition, with a dark impression, slight toning, and a minor centerfold crease. Keywords: - East Indies map - Indonesia historical map - Philippines map...

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...

Circa 1691 Frederick de Wit Map: Middle East with Arabia, Persia & More This exquisite hand-colored map, circa 1691, by Frederick de Wit, illustrates the Middle East, spanning from Turkey and Egypt to Afghanistan, with a detailed representation of the Arabian Peninsula. The map's detailing in Arabia is based on Nicolas Sanson's influential 1654 map, which was one of the most accurate and detailed depictions of the region up to the mid-seventeenth century. The decorative title cartouche is richly adorned with images of exotic figures, animals, and a merchant ship, symbolizing the region's historical trade importance. Additionally, a mapmaker is shown working with traditional tools, adding a touch of authenticity to the cartographic art. This is the fourth state of the map, published between 1691 and 1696. The map measures 21.8 inches in width by 18.5 inches in height, featuring a sharp impression, with minimal staining and a carefully repaired centerfold separation at the bottom. Keywords: - Middle East historical map - Frederick de Wit map - 17th century maps - Arabian Peninsula map - Persia (Iran) map - Turkey and Egypt map...

This map titled *Pascaret van Schager-Rack de Bælt en de Sondt* was created by the prominent Dutch cartographer Johannes van Keulen and published in Amsterd...

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 map titled 'Exactissima Tabula, qua tam Danubii Fluvii Pars Superior'. Very finely detailed map covering the region of northern Italy, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. The co...

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 map titled 'Magni Mogolis Imperium'. This map depicts the Empire of the Great Mogul in northern India including the region from Iran to Burma. The Indus and Ganges Rivers are...

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 'Partie de Barbarie, ou est le Royaume d'Alger (..)'. Copper-engraved map showing the Algerian coast of North Africa. Published 1683. Artists and Engravers:...

A very decorative map centered on Genua, and including the towns of Milan, Torino, Parma, Cremona, etc. Decorative title cartouche upper right, five putti holding the arms of the reg...

A detailed map of Portugal. Embellished with beautiful cartouche, sailing vessels and many putti. Very rare edition by J. de Ram, circa 1680.

Southern India Map, Deccan Malabar, Nicolas Sanson, 1683 This engraved map depicts the Indian Peninsula, extending from Gujarat and the Bay of Bengal in the north to Cape Como...

Title: 1685 Alain Manesson Mallet Map of Hokkaido, Iesso, and Company’s Land Description: This engraved seventeenth-century map, titled Terre de Iesso, was published in 1685 as pa...

Cosmography & Astrology Large oval engraved plate with inscriptions outlining the various parts of cosmography and astronomy; below, two emblematic figures with scientific instruments either side. Lettered with title, dedication, and various inscriptions. To his Excellency Roger Palmer, Earle of Castelmain and Baron of Limerick in Ireland, Embassador Extraordinary from his majesty King James II to his Holyness Pope Innocent 11th anno dom 1686. This plate is humbly DD by Richard Blome. On paper and retaining its original coloring. Sheet width 26 ½ cm., 10 ½ in., height 41 ½ cm., 16 ½ in., In a part-gilded Sansovino frame...

Antique Miniature Map of Portugal by Pierre Du Val ,Paris. Hand-Colored c1680 A charming late-17th-century miniature map of Portugal by Pierre Du Val, published in Paris around 1680...

Exactissima Lotharingia - A Rare 17th Century Map of Lorraine by Carel Allard This fascinating map of Lorraine, created by Carel Allard around 1690, is a stunning example of coppe...

Antique map titled 'Fiandra Parte Occidentale (..)'. Depicts northern part of Flanders, from North Sea, extends through the northern region of France to the cities of Douai and V...

Antique map titled 'Indiae Orientalis, nec non Insularum Adiacentium Nova Descriptio.' Map of Southeast Asia. The map centers on the Strait of Malacca and Malay Peninsula. It ext...

Title: New Description of the Duchy of Burgundy - Frederik De Wit c. 1688 Description: This exquisite map of the Duchy of Burgundy, published after 1688, is a fascinating example of...

Antique map titled 'Isle de Madagascar ou de St. Laurens. Tiree de Sanutu &c'. Antique map of Madagascar, first published by Sanson in 1657. Sanson n...

Title: IRLANDIA – Antique Map of Ireland, Latin Cartography by Du Val c.1650 Description: This original antique map depicts the island of Ireland under the Latin title “Irlandia” an...

This is an antique Stafford County Map. An English, framed atlas engraving of Staffordshire, dating to the 17th century and later, circa 1676. Superb cartography reproduction of St...

Cortés Scuttling His Ships at Veracruz – Hand-Colored Engraving by Van Beecq, c.1690 An exceptional late 17th-century hand-colored copperplate engraving depicting Hernán Cortés scut...

Judaea or Terra Sancta, Twelve Tribes of Israel – Sanson Map, c.1680 This antique map depicts Judaea or the Holy Land divided among the Twelve Tribes of Israel, based on biblical ge...

The City of Cowlang – Antique Map of Kollam (Quilon), India by Philip Baldaeus, c.1672 Rare and beautifully hand-colored 17th-century bird’s-eye plan of the fortified coastal city o...

Large 17th-Century Coronelli Map of Europe with Mythical Islands and Rich Detail This exceptional two-sheet map of Europe by Vincenzo Maria Coronelli, published in Venice in 1692,...

Title: Rare Hand-Colored Map of Lorraine and Barrois by Frederik De Wit c. 1688 Description: This remarkable 17th-century map, titled "Generalis Lotharingiae Ducatus," offers a deta...

Map of England 1690 by Nicolaes Visscher II – Heptarchy and Counties Shown Antique 1690 map of England by Nicolaes Visscher II, showing the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy and detailed county...

Original antique map titled 'Regna Congo et Angola'. Decorative 17th Century English map of a portion of West Africa, focused on the Congo and Angola. The map is centered on the Zair...

Map of the Duchy of Luxembourg by De Wit, Amsterdam circa 1680 Rare original antique map of the Duchy of Luxembourg by Frederick de Wit, published in Amsterdam circa 1680. A highly ...

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...

Title: Provence Map - Hand-Colored 17th-Century Engraving by Frederik De Wit c. 1688 Description: This captivating map, "Gouvernement de Provence," depicts the Provence region of so...

Antique map titled 'Comitatus Hannoniae et Episcopatus Cambresis Descriptio'. Large map of the Hainaut region, France. Published by F. de Wit, circa 1680.

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...

Antique map titled 'Isola e Castello di Gerbi'. Original antique map of the Island of Djerba, Tunisia, in Africa. Includes an inset of the Djerba Castle in upper right. This map orig...

Antique map titled 'Ducatus Bremae et Ferdae (..)'. Original antique map of the region of Bremen and Verden, Germany. Published by N. Visscher, circa 1690. The Visscher family were...

Antique map titled 'Comitatus Hollandiae Tabula Pluribus Locis Recens Emendata a Nicolao I. Visschero'. West to the top. Lower left inset of the Wadden Islands, Texel, Vlieland, Ters...

Rare 17th Century Map of Batavia and Castle on Java by Isaac de l'Obel This finely detailed and vividly hand-colored copperplate engraving offers a rare and early view of Batavia (p...

Original antique map titled 'Tab XII Asiae Taprobanam (..)'. For this map of Toprobana (Sri Lanka), Ptolemy drew on the accounts of travelers and sailors and though the information was secondhand and often inaccurate, it represented the most advanced account of the world's geography at that time. This map depicts the island with the typical misconceptions of the period with the enlarged island straddling the Equator and nearly divided by a ridge of mountains. A small part of India is incorrectly shown in the northeast corner of the map and a spurious coastline labeled Gangem fills the upper right corner. The stipple engraved sea contains an oriental ship...

Rare 1670 Map of Tartary by Richard Blome after Sanson, hand-colored engraving This striking and highly decorative map, titled *A Generall Mapp of the Kingdome of Tartaria*, was pub...

Antique map titled 'Les Iles du Iapon (..)'. Original antique map, with beautiful (later) hand coloring, of Japan and the Island of Corey (Korea). Uncommon edition, with '234' at top...

Map of the Persian Empire by Nicolas Sanson, hand-colored, circa 1683 This finely detailed and delicately hand-colored map titled *L'Empire du Sophy des Perses* presents a late 17th...