Original 17th-Century Antique Map of Fujian (Fokien) Province, China – by Blaeu

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...

17th-Century Antique Map of Henan Province, China – "Honan" by Blaeu, with Detailed Cartography and Artistic Cartouches Description: This exceptional 17th-century map of Henan Province, historically referred to as "Honan," was created by Johannes Blaeu and published in 1655 as part of the *Novus Atlas Sinensis*. Henan, located in central China, is known as the cradle of Chinese...

Title: 17th-Century Antique Map of Hunan and Hubei Provinces, China – "Hvqvang" by Blaeu, Richly Detailed and Illustrated Description: This beautiful 17th-century map of the regions that now comprise Hunan and Hubei Provinces, historically referred to as "Hvqvang," was created by Johannes Blaeu and published in 1655 as part of the *Novus Atlas Sinensis*. This map, drawn with input from Jesuit missionary Martino Martini, provides a meticulous representation of central China’s geography, capturing its rivers, towns, and mountainous terrain. The Yangtze River (Changjiang) is prominently featured, emphasizing the region’s importance as a vital waterway for trade and transportation. Wuhan, now a modern metropolis, and Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, were historically significant cities that appear on the map. The area is also notable for its fertile lands and contributions to China’s agricultural prosperity, particularly in rice and tea production. The decorative cartouche in the lower-right corner features two figures in traditional Chinese attire standing amid bamboo, symbolizing the cultural and natural richness of the region. Blaeu’s map combines precision and artistry, with vibrant hand-coloring distinguishing boundaries and geographical features. The copperplate engraving ensures fine detail, making this map a remarkable historical artifact. Condition: Near excellent. Clean impression with vivid hand-coloring. Wide margins with minor age-toning appropriate for its age. Framing Tips: Use a neutral double mat and a gilt or dark wood frame to enhance the presentation. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the vivid hand-coloring and intricate engraving details. Hunan and Hubei, historically referred to as "Hvqvang," are known for their strategic location along the Yangtze River and their cultural and economic significance in Chinese history. The region’s fertile lands have supported extensive rice cultivation, earning it the title of one of China’s "breadbaskets." Hubei, with Wuhan at its center, has long been a hub of transportation and trade, owing to the convergence of the Yangtze and Han Rivers. Hunan, with Changsha as its capital, is known for its rich cultural heritage and contributions to Chinese literature and art. Important places in the region include Wuhan, an ancient trade center, and Changsha, known for its historical sites and cultural prominence. The Yangtze River, a key feature on the map, highlights the region’s historical importance as a major waterway for commerce and agriculture. Other notable features include Dongting Lake, a vital ecological and cultural landmark, and the surrounding mountainous areas that have shaped the region’s history and development. Keywords: antique map of Hunan, Hubei map, Hvqvang map, Yangtze River map, 17th-century Chinese map...

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...

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...

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

1627 Hendrik Hondius map entitled "Vltoniae orientalis pars," Ric.a009 Title: Vltoniae orientalis : pars Title (alt.) : Ultoniae orientalis pars Creator: Mercator, Gerh...

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. ...