17th-Century Original Antique Map of Hunan and Hubei Provinces, China – by Blaeu

Antique print titled 'Plans de Quelques villes de la province de Hou-Quang.' Three bird's-eye view plans of walled cities in what are now China's Hubei (Hou-Quang) and Hunan Province...

Title: 17th-Century Antique Map of Nanjing Province, China – "Nanking sive Kiangnan" by Blaeu, with Decorative Details Description: This captivating 17th-century map of Nanjing Pr...

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: Antique 17th-Century Map of Guangxi Province, China – "Qvangsii" by Blaeu, Richly Illustrated and Colored Description: This fascinating 17th-century map of Guangxi Province, historically referred to as "Qvangsii," was crafted by Johannes Blaeu and published in 1655 as part of the *Novus Atlas Sinensis*. Blaeu’s atlas, created in collaboration with Jesuit missionary Martino Martini, introduced European audiences to the geography of China in an unprecedented way. Guangxi Province, known for its striking karst landscapes and important historical trade routes, is depicted here in remarkable detail. The map highlights the province’s topography, including mountain ranges, rivers, and towns, all meticulously engraved and labeled in Latin. It also captures key trade connections and cultural significance, as Guangxi historically served as a bridge between China and Southeast Asia. The decorative cartouche at the top left is adorned with figures in traditional Chinese costumes, symbolizing the cultural richness of the region and adding artistic elegance to the map. This map was engraved using the copperplate technique, known for its ability to produce fine, detailed lines. The hand-coloring further enhances the visual impact, clearly distinguishing territorial divisions and natural features. Blaeu’s reputation for both accuracy and artistry is evident in this piece, making it a collector’s item of historical and aesthetic significance. Guangxi Province, historically referred to as "Qvangsii," is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, unique karst landscapes, and cultural diversity. It is famous for its dramatic limestone formations, verdant hills, and picturesque rivers, making it one of the most visually striking regions in China. Guangxi has historically been a significant trade corridor between China and Southeast Asia, contributing to its cultural and economic importance. It is also home to various ethnic minority groups, including the Zhuang, Miao, and Dong, whose traditions and festivals enrich the region's cultural tapestry. Important places in Guangxi include Guilin, known for its iconic karst mountains and the Li River, which has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Yangshuo, a town near Guilin, is celebrated for its stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities. Nanning, the provincial capital, is an important economic and cultural hub. The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone, are an engineering marvel and a popular tourist destination. Beihai, a coastal city, is known for its silver beaches and maritime trade history. Keywords for this map include 17th-century China map, Guangxi Province, Qvangsii map, antique Chinese maps...

Antique early 17th century British very rare and original John Speed, hand coloured map of Denbighshire, dated 1610, by John Sunbury and George Humble. John...

A 17th century copperplate hand-colored map entitled "The Sixt Table of England" by Gerard Mercator and Jodocus Hondius, published in Amsterdam in 1635 in 'Cosmographicall Descriptio...

This original hand-colored copperplate engraved map of Africa entitled "Africa Vetus, Nicolai Sanson Christianiss Galliar Regis Geographi" was originally created by Nicholas Sanson d...

This is a framed hand-colored 17th century map of Northern Scotland by Gerard Mercator entitled "Scotiae pars Septentrionalis", published in Amsterdam in 1636. It is a highly detailed map of the northern part of Scotland, with the northwest Highlands and the cities Inverness and Aberdeen, as well as the Orkney Islands and the Hebrides. There is a decorative title cartouche in the upper left corner. The map is presented in an antiqued brown wood...