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1675 Map of the Kingdom of the Black People (Nigritarum Regnum) by Janssonius

About the Item

This original antique map, titled 'Nigritarum Regnum' (The Kingdom of the Black People), was produced by the renowned Dutch cartographer Johannes Janssonius and published in 'Joannis Janssonii Atlantis Majoris, sive Cosmographiae Universalis. Tomus Octavus' in 1675 by his heirs in Amsterdam. Known for his influential contributions during the Golden Age of Dutch cartography, Janssonius’s works were celebrated for their meticulous detail and artistry. This map appears in the eighth volume of *Atlantis Majoris*, a comprehensive atlas that covered regions such as Spain, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The map focuses on West Africa, depicting territories, rivers, and coastal regions from Nubia to the Congo, including notable areas like Guinea and Angola. Major African cities and kingdoms of the period, such as Tombouctou (Timbuktu), Gao, and the Mandinga regions, are marked, reflecting European interest in African geography and trade routes. The rich decorative elements on the map include an elaborate cartouche featuring African figures and wildlife, symbolizing the continent’s diversity and the exoticized view held by Europeans at the time. A detailed coat of arms in the lower-left corner, dedicated to Otto von Schwerin—a distinguished figure of the era—accompanies a Latin dedication text honoring him. Sailing ships are illustrated in the *Oceanus Aethiopicus* (Atlantic Ocean), representing the period's exploration and mercantile ambitions along Africa’s west coast. Following Janssonius’s death in 1664, his heirs continued his legacy, reissuing his atlases with updated information and new decorative elements. Maps like this one from *Atlantis Majoris* served both as geographical references and as luxury items that catered to the educated and affluent, symbolizing wealth and curiosity about the wider world. The map stands as a testament to Janssonius’s lasting impact on cartography, blending scientific precision with visual opulence to capture the European perspective on Africa during the 17th century. The Latin text in the coat of arms cartouche on Janssonius’s *Nigritarum Regnum* map is a dedication to Otto von Schwerin, a prominent figure of the time. The text reads: *“Reverendissimo, Perillustri et Excellentissimo Domino Dno Ottoni L.B. a Schwerin Electoratus ac Marchiae Brandenburgensis Camerario Hereditario, Serenissimi ac Potentissimi Electori Brandenburgico a Consiliis Secretioribus, et Status, omniumque Judiciorum summo Praesidi, Ecclesiae Cathedralis quae Brandeburgi est Decano, Dno in Landsberg, Oldenbergshagen et Zachan.”* Translated, this dedication honors Otto von Schwerin as a highly distinguished, illustrious, and excellent lord. It lists his titles and roles: hereditary chamberlain of the Electorate and the Margraviate of Brandenburg, senior advisor and president of the council and judiciary for the Elector of Brandenburg, dean of the Brandenburg Cathedral, and lord of Landsberg, Oldenbergshagen, and Zachan. This type of dedication was common in 17th-century maps, adding prestige to the work by associating it with notable patrons or figures of influence and authority. By including this dedication, Janssonius and his heirs were paying homage to Schwerin, likely recognizing him as a supporter of their work or a respected figure in cartographic circles or political affairs. This 1675 map *Nigritarum Regnum* by Johannes Janssonius depicts various regions and significant locations in West and Central Africa, reflecting European perspectives of African geography during the 17th century. Key regions, kingdoms, and cities on the map include: 1. **Guinea** – Highlighted as a prominent coastal region, historically known for gold and other trade goods. 2. **Congo** – A central African kingdom, recognized for its substantial influence and interactions with Portuguese traders. 3. **Melli** – Refers to the historical Mali Empire, known for its wealth, trade networks, and Islamic culture. 4. **Mandinga (Mandingo)** – Associated with the Mandinka people, an influential ethnic group spread across West Africa. 5. **Tombouctou (Timbuktu)** – A renowned city in present-day Mali, famous for its historical significance as a center of learning and trade. 6. **Gambia** – Marked with reference to the Gambia River, an important route for trade. 7. **Cano Regn.** – Likely a reference to the Kano Kingdom in present-day Nigeria, historically part of the Hausa states. 8. **Nubia** – Representing a northeastern region, historically part of Sudan and southern Egypt, known for its ancient kingdoms and connection to the Nile. 9. **Borno (Bornu)** – An important kingdom in what is now northeastern Nigeria, associated with the Kanem-Bornu Empire, known for its Islamic scholarship. 10. **Zanfara (Zamfara)** – Referring to the historical Zamfara region, located in present-day northern Nigeria. 11. **Gaoga (Gao)** – An important trading city on the Niger River in present-day Mali, once part of the Songhai Empire. 12. **Gorhan (Gorham or possibly a misspelling of Gorhan)** – The exact historical location is unclear, but it may refer to a region or local name in the area. Additional notable features include: - **Oceanus Aethiopicus** – The Atlantic Ocean is labeled as the "Oceanus Aethiopicus" or "Ethiopian Ocean," a common term in early modern European maps for the waters off the coast of Africa. - **Lacus Guarde** – Likely a reference to Lake Chad, which was known to Europeans as a prominent inland lake. - **Zaire Lacus** – Refers to a lake or water source in the Congo Basin, possibly a European interpretation of an important river system. The map is enriched with symbolic illustrations, such as ships in the ocean, representing European exploration and trade. The decorative cartouche at the bottom right includes African figures, animals like a lion, and cultural symbols, emphasizing Africa’s exoticized image in European cartography. These place names reflect the blend of geographic knowledge and mythologized perspectives typical of European maps of Africa during this period.

Dimensions:

Height: 20.08 in (51 cm)Width: 23.43 in (59.5 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)

Materials and Techniques:

Paper,Engraved

Period:

1670-1679

Date of Manufacture:

1675

Condition:

The map is in good condition with minor age-toning. Edges may have light wear, and there are occasional small stains. Colors are well-preserved, enhancing decorative elements. Original centerfold intact with minimal handling marks or creasing.

Seller Location:

Langweer, NL

Reference Number:

Seller: BG-13647-11stDibs: LU3054342043892

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