18th Century and Earlier Collectibles and Curiosities

Antique portrait titled 'Majorinus Numida'. Portrait of Majorinus, a bishop of Carthage in dispute with Ceacilianus. He favored the so-called Donatist sect. He died ca. 329 AD. This print originates from 'Historie der kerken en ketteren van den beginne des Nieuwen Testaments tot aan het jaar onses Heeren 1688 ... In het Neederduyts vertaald' by G. Arnold. Artists and Engravers: Gottfried Arnold (1666 – 1714) was a German Lutheran...

Collectible antique German Luther Bible, also known as " Lutherbibel " in Germany. The Lutherbibel is a German translation by the Protestant reformer Martin Luther, a New Testament t...

A very attractive and charming 18th century, George II Period, walnut and oak miniature bureau, having elegant inlaid decoration and original brasswea...

A very good copy of Bleyswijck famous description of the history, topography, institutions, and commercial life of Delft in the 17th Century. The plates are exquisite depiction's of ...

This is an antique map of Styria (referred to as “Stiria” or “Steyrmarck”), published by the renowned Dutch cartographer Willem Janszoon Blaeu (often simply “Blaeu”). The first editi...

18th century hand forged wrought iron church pulpit Originally from a church in Western France, dating circa 1770 The pulpit and original flooring has b...

A fine example of a double barrel flintlock sporting gun by Probin, London. The browned barrels and the locks are both signed, good colour walnut stock. circa 1795 Barrel length 83c...

Antique map titled 'Basse Partie de la Basse Saxe ou sont les Duchés de Sleswick, Holsace, Meckelenbourg et Lauvenbourg (..)'. Original old map of northern Germany, including Schlesw...

Antique map titled 'Persia sive Sophorum Regnum'. Original old map of Persia. The map extends from the Eastern Mediteranian to Tacalistan and the Indus River and the Dalanguer Mounta...

Antique map titled 'Venezuela cum parte Australi Novae Andalusiae'. The map extends from Coquibocoa to the Orinoque River, centered on Bariquicemento and Cape de Curiacao. Large cart...

Gilt Bronze Devotional Plaque of Saint Sebastian — Spanish, Early 17th Century An exceptional gilt bronze devotional plaque depicting Saint Sebastian, created in Spain during the ea...

Virgin with Child. Carved and polychrome wood. Spanish school, 13th century. It has faults. Polychrome wood carving that shows the Virgin sitting on a throne, with her right hand r...

This original antique map titled "Le Gouvernement de l'Isle de France" represents the Île-de-France region, which historically was one of the provinces of France and contained the ci...

Untitled print depicting various Egyptian objects including statues. Originates from the first Dutch editon of an interesting travel account of Northern Africa titled 'Reizen en Aanm...

A late 18th century mahogany miniature chest retaining good colour throughout, with rectangular top over four well figured long drawers having...

Antique print titled 'Views of the Coast of Kamtschatka (..)'. Print with coastal views of Kamchatka including volcanoes. Originates from an edition of Cook's Voyages. Artists and ...

Mid-18th Century porcelain snuff tobacco box with Ormulu gilt embossed relief and with empire classical motives. The inside of the lid is decorated with colorful flowers. Wonderful a...

Dating from the late 17th century and done in the Federalist style, this finely detailed and well executed hand painted miniature portrait on bone of a period nobleman can be worn as...

Antique map titled 'Kaart van Oost Indie'. Old map of the East Indies. It shows the routes of Captain William Dampier's voyage throughout the regio...

Carved boxwood snuffbox Very beautiful old patina. Finely carved with religious scene Period 18th century. 5 x 9.3 cm, height 2.7 cm

Antique map titled 'The Counti of Warwick the Shire Towne and Citie of Coventre described'. Map of Warwickshire, England. Includes inset town plans of Warwic...

Antique print, titled: 'Vera effigies et delineato Insulae Ascenstio …' - Bird's eye view of Ascension Island. Five large sailing ships in the background and flying fish and waterfowl in the foreground. On the rear an image of four ships sailing towards a whale, accompanied by fowl, flying fish and dolphins. From 'Indiae Orientalis', 1598-1604. Artists and Engravers: Made by an anonymous engraver after 'Jean Theodore de Bry...

Rare icon with three chosen Saints most likely the patron saints of a family consisting of a father, a mother and a son. The inscriptions which could identify the saints are gone but most likely the depicted saints from left to right are: Saint George, Saint Dimitri and Saint Paraskeva. In the background we see the icon of the Old Testament Trinity; the three angels visiting Abraham and Sarah...

Bible,, Biblia Sacra, dat is, de H. Schriftuer van het Oude, en het Nieuwe Testament, Naar de laetste Roomsche Keure der gemeine Latijnsche Overzettinge, in nederduitsch Vertaeld, me...

"1716 Moullart-Sanson Map of the Holy Land and Sacred Geography of the Old Testament" This engraved map, created by Pierre Moullart-Sanson and reissued by Robert de Vaugondy in 1740...

Early Woodcut Bird's Eye View of Rouffach, France, by Sebastian Münster, 1554 Description: This rare 1554 woodcut is a bird's eye view of Rouffach, a town in the Haut-Rhin departmen...

Carte de l'Isle de la Barbade by Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (1703–1772), Circa 1759 This rare antique map of Barbados, titled Carte de l'Isle de la Barbad...

An extremely attractive and very good quality late 18th century, Georgian, oak miniature chest, having well figured rectangular top, over two short and three long drawers retaining original turned wooden knobs, flanked by elegant half turned columns, raised on elegant original shaped bracket feet. A beautifully charming little piece of 18th century miniature furniture, constructed from rich, warm oak timbers which retain an exceptional colour and patina, it boasts original handles and feet. Almost certainly it was made as a sample piece of furniture originally. There is regular debate over whether miniature furniture was made as an apprentice piece, which is when a craftsmen who was looking for a job at a workshop would create something to showcase their talents. Or whether it was made as a travelling salesman...

Important and historic, acquired from the estate of legendary American businessman, the late T. Boone Pickens, we're proud to offer this exceptional carved giltwood reliquary - monstrance from the early 18th century. Elaborately hand carved in period Rococo - Rocaille taste, with superb scrollwork, openwork, fanciful acanthus leaf and shell, ornate detailing, polychrome painted warm pastel colors, now beautifully distressed, muted tones, with remnants of gold gilded accents. Pieces such as this were used in early churches for convenient exhibition or public display of some object of piety and other important religious relics...

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...

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...

Antique map titled 'La Hongrie suivant les Nouvelles Observations (..)'. Antique map of Hungary with decorative title cartouche. Artists and Engravers: ...

Ottoman brass incense burner with incised and openwork decoration. The domed lid is topped with a grip, it is decorated with openwork scrolls. The incense burner rests on a circular base with three feet The whole is in gilded brass. Turkey, Ottoman art, 18th century Burner diameter: 11 cm Very beautiful decorative object Can be used to burn incense or diffuse perfume.

Saint Stephen. Oil on canvas. 17th century, following Aegidius Sadeler's engraving (inspired by Jacopo Palma). The figure of the Saint appears in the ...

For samurai warriors, the functionality of their armor was as vital as its striking beauty—both elements held equal importance. This orange-laced armor is one of the rarest and most stunning complete Edo-period samurai suits ever crafted, designed for a military leader to convey the gravity of his power and warrior spirit at a single glance. This particularly rare armor...

Antique 18th Century Diptych Sundial and Compass a portable wooden sundial with compass, of German origin, by David Beringer, Nuremberg, dating back to the 1780 circa, in good age re...

Title: Hand-Colored City Plan of Cologne by Nicolas de Fer, 1705 This hand-colored map, titled "Cologne Ville Considerable Situee sur le Bord Occidentale du Rhein Capit. de l'Electo...

George III Mahogany Banjo Barometer By Edie & Son. Edinburgh Alexander James Adie FRSE MWS (7 November 1775, Edinburgh – 4 December 1858, Edinburgh) was a Scottish maker of medical ...

Voyage to the Cape of Good Hope, towards the Antarctic polar circle, and round the world, but chiefly into the country of the Caffres, from the year ...

A large crest with shell and scroll carved frame enclosing an azure ground with gilded coat of arms featuring a cross with four birds over lions and fleur de lis and Tudor roses. Onl...

A 17th century or earlier brass alms dish or alms plate.

Antique map titled 'Ducatus Uplandiae cum Westmanniae Sudermanniae (..)' This map shows parts of Finland and Sweden. Originally published by Frederick de Wit in the late 1600's. ...

Title: Decorative Map of Hanover, Lower Saxony by Lodge, ca. 1785 This decorative map, titled "A New & Correct Plan of Hanover, a City in the circle of Lower Saxony," was engraved b...

Antique print titled 'Kohm - Kasjan'. Old print with two views: one is Qom, the other Kashan. Both are in Iran (then known as Persia). This print originates from 'Cornelis de Bruins...

This map, titled "A Map of the Colonies of the Descendants of Ham," dates to around 1790. It illustrates regions in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe that were traditional...

Genuine, museum-quality, Ophiuroidea Brittle Star Fossil. Ophiura ophiura or the serpent star is a species of brittle star in the order Ophiurida. This type of species is known for i...

Antique print titled 'Vaisseau Royal de l'Angleterre, Konincklyke Schip van Engeland'. Beautiful hand-coloured engraving of the Royal Flagship of the English Fleet. Originally publis...

Antique print titled 'Vue du Lac, de l'Orangerie et du Temple d'Eole à Kew (..)'. Copper engraving showing the lake, orangery, temple and pagoda of the Kew gardens. This print origin...

Bird's-Eye Views of Dunkerque, Gravelines, and Bourbourg by Braun and Hogenberg, 1597 This antique print, published in 1597 by Braun and Hogenberg, showcases three detailed bird's...

An English 17th century lantern clock made of brass and iron, circa 1665-1670. The clock consists of going and striking trains, as well as a...

Important German Tabernacle Museum Piece 16th-17th century IMPORTANT GERMAN TABERNACLE IN MUSEUM 16TH-17TH CENTURY EXCEPTIONAL SOUTHERN GERMAN TABERNACLE...

Pair of easels in the shape of an eagle. Bronze, iron. 16th-17th century. Rear supports. Pair of lecterns with tripod-shaped bases, claw-shaped legs with spheres, and a triangular part from which three baluster-shaped legs emerge, with elements in light tones that join at the top of this piece , leaving a vegetal form towards the lower area. The finials are two eagles on spheres, each looking to the side with its head tilted upwards, and situated with its wings half spread; the back is smooth, without the details of the feathers, eyes, beak and claws that do show in the front. The eagles could be from the Spanish school or from the Netherlands, dating from the 16th-17th centuries, while the bases are from the 20th century. It seems that, at least in Spain, the spread of tall lecterns...

Rare antique Italian kneeler, Mid-17th Century Louis XIV. Made of solid walnut with relief decoration carved into the wood. In the part dedicated to the knees there is a compartment. Of great value all the hand forged iron part of the escutcheons and fantastic large antique keys...

Vol XV 'The Universal Magazine of Knowledge and Pleasure' by John Hinton, published 1754. The Universal Magazine of Knowledge and Pleasure was a per...

Super map of Spain and Portugal Copper plate engraving by A. Bell Published, circa 1790. Unframed.  

Antique map titled 'Barbariae et Biledulgerid nova descriptio'. Old map of coastal North Africa and the Mediterranean. The map extends from Morocco and the Sahara to Libya and sh...

Author:: Balbus, Johannes. Title: Catholicon. (An original leaf). Publisher: Mainz: [Peter Schoeffer], 1469. Description: An Original Catholicon Leaf Printed By Peter Schoeffer. 36.5 cm x 28.5 cm, printed in double columns with 66 lines to the page, rubricated 15 on recto and 38 on verso, printed on Galliziani paper, the half of the sheet without the watermark, but with the characteristic shadows at wire-line intervals of ca. 5 mm.. Condition: Mild toning to edges of leaf, otherwise invery good condition Additional Information.: The first nonreligious book ever printed by the first printer. Below is an interesting translation mentioning Africa from Verso: column 2: 11th item: line 34 - "Heliotrope: A green colored stone having blood red veins. If placed in a silver dish filled with water and exposed to the rays of the sun, the water will turn blood red, and the sun will go dark. It is most brilliant when at the rising and setting of the sun it changes color. It is found in Africa." Aside from a leaf from the Gutenberg bible this is one of the earliest possible obtainable pieces of printing associated with Johann Gutenberg. Provenance: 1) Sir Hans Sloane...

This is a historical map titled "L'Empire Du Mogol, Et La Presqu Isle De L'Inde En Deca Du Gange." An original authentic map, created by Rigobert Bonne (1727-1794), an influential ...