Continental Europe Maps

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 Preservation of History: This map serves as a historical document, preserving knowledge about Batavia's cityscape, infrastructure, and colonial governance.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...

Bird’s-Eye View of Basel from Braun & Hogenberg’s "Civitates Orbis Terrarum" (Circa 1572-1617) This highly detailed map of Basel is a bird's-eye view, originally based on Sebastian Münster’s map...

Title: Map of Groningen from "The Genealogy of the Illustrious Counts of Nassau" (1615) Description: This antique map, titled "Gronenga," offers a detailed depiction of the forti...

The map is titled "Île et Banc de Terre-Neuve avec les Îles St. Pierre et Miquelon", depicting Newfoundland and the French islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon. It is from the Petit Atlas National series. Features: - The map is divided into two sections: 1. The left side shows Newfoundland (Terre-Neuve) and its surrounding waters, including important locations such as the Île du Cap Breton and Grand Bank fishing areas. 2. The right side focuses on St. Pierre and Miquelon, a French overseas territory near Newfoundland. - Hand-colored outlines mark the territories, with color distinctions for the different islands. - Administrative divisions and key geographic features, such as capes, bays, and towns, are labeled on the map. Here the text translated: Here is the translation of the text from French to English: **NOTICE.** The islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon, the only remaining French possession in this part of America since the loss of Canada, are located a few miles from the southern coast of Newfoundland, which belongs to the English. Their relatively fertile soil is broken up by hills that give rise to small streams. **Grande Miquelon**, the northernmost of the two islands, has a circumference of about 9 to 10 leagues. It offers a convenient port for fishing boats. **Petite Miquelon**, to the south of Grande Miquelon, has a circumference of about 6 leagues. It is well-watered and well-wooded. **Saint Pierre**, to the south-southwest of the two other islands, presents a somewhat similar appearance but is devoid of trees. Although it is the smallest of the three islands, it is the most important due to the size of its harbor, which can accommodate 30 to 40 ships of various sizes, and because of its favorable coastline for the preparation, preservation, and export of cod. On its eastern coast, at the bottom of a beautiful bay, lies the town of Saint Pierre, the only notable settlement on the three islands. It is the residence of a naval officer who, under the title of Commander, governs the colony. The permanent population is about 2,000 souls, of which 800 reside in Saint Pierre. However, sailors come to the islands from the coasts of Brittany and Normandy during the cod fishing season on the Grand Banks of Newfoundland and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. In 1833, it was estimated that about 14,000 sailors were employed in this fishery, and the purchase of supplies required by the colony was valued at over one million francs. --- This translation reflects the original notice describing the French islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon, with details about their geography, population, and economic activities related to the fishing industry. Historical Context: - This map is part of a collection meant to showcase France's overseas colonies and territories, including the small but significant St. Pierre and Miquelon, which has been under French control for centuries and was a critical fishing and trading hub. - The Petit Atlas National series was typically published in the early 19th century, and this map likely dates from the same period, around 1815–1820. People searching for maps or information about Newfoundland and the French islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon use the following keywords: 1. Newfoundland map...

Antique print Malaysia titled 'De Stad Malacka'. Decorative panoramic view of the town of Malacca with European vessels in the foreground. The old C...

Antique map Holy Land titled 'Perigrinatie ofte Veertich-Iarige Reyse, der kinderen Israels uyt Egipten, door de Roode-Zee; mitsgaders de Woestyne tot int Beloofde Landt Canaan, : met groote vlyt uyt verscheryden auctoren by een gestelt, uyt de H. Schrift gecorigeert, ende int licht gegeven'. Beautiful and rare antique map of the Holy Land...

A highly decorative and detailed mid-19th century map of Belgium which was drawn and engraved by J. Rapkin (vignettes by J. Marchant and J. B. Allen) an...

Title: "Hispania Antiqua in Tres Praecipuas Partes Divisa: Tarraconensem, Lusitaniam, et Bæticam" by Robert de Vaugondy, 18th Century Description: This beautifully detailed map titl...

Title: Asiae Peninsula sive Asia Intra Taurum by Christoph Weigel, Circa 1720 – Decorative Antique Map of Cyprus and Asia Minor Description: Thi...

Antique Map Description Title: Carte Générale et Politique de l'Europe Publication Details: - **Atlas Title:** Nouvel Atlas Universel de Géographie Ancienne et Moderne - **Purpose...

This map titled "La Guadeloupe et ses Dépendances" (Guadeloupe and its Dependencies) is from a Petit Atlas National series, focusing on the French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe, Ma...

Untitled antique print with two views of Cairo, Egypt. 78: Palace of Sultan Gori. 79. Tower and aqueduct. This print originates from 'Reizen van Cornelis de Bruyn, door de vermaardst...

This is an 18th-century Dutch map of Martinique, titled *Het Westindisch Eiland Martinique*. The map was produced by Isaak Tirion, a renowned Dutch cartographer and publisher known for his precise and beautifully crafted maps. The cartouche in the lower left corner, adorned with decorative elements, adds to the aesthetic appeal of the map. ### Key Features: - Martinique: The map offers detailed topographical information of the island, including mountains, rivers, and settlements. - Geographical Details: Locations such as Fort Royal, Bay de St. Pierre, and Point de Cloche are marked, showcasing significant features of the island. - Cartouche: The ornate cartouche, featuring tropical plants, reflects the importance of the island's agricultural production during the colonial period, particularly its sugar plantations. This map captures Martinique during its time as a French colony and provides valuable insight into the island’s layout and strategic significance in the Caribbean. The attention to coastal detail highlights the importance of Martinique as a hub of maritime activity. The map’s combination of aesthetic elegance and cartographic precision makes it a remarkable piece for collectors and those interested in Caribbean colonial...

Antique portrait titled 'Lodovicus D.G. (..)'. Portrait of Louis II, King of Hungary, Croatia and Bohemia. This print originates from 'Tooneel der keysere...

Antique map titled 'Siberia and Chinese Tartary'. Detailed antique map of the region of Siberia, Mongolia and Manchuria. Engraved by J. & C. Walker. Published 1838.

Antique Map of the Frankfurt Region by Johannes Janssonius circa 1650 Hand-Colored This rare and beautifully detailed antique map titled Territorium Francofurtense depicts the reg...

The map titled "GRAECIA, EPIRUS post bella Persica," translates to "Greece and Epirus after the Persian Wars." It covers the regions of ancient Greece and Epirus following the Greco-Persian Wars, a series of conflicts between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire during the 5th century BC. What makes this map interesting: 1. **Historical Context**: The period after the Persian Wars was pivotal for ancient Greece, leading to the rise of Athens as a major power and the Golden Age of Athens. 2. **Inset Maps**: Detailed insets, such as the one showing the Acropolis of Athens, provide close-up views of historically significant locations. 3. **Topography**: It features the diverse terrain of Greece, from the rugged mountain ranges to the intricate coastlines and islands, influencing the development of Greek city-states. 4. **City-States**: The map likely details the various polis or city-states, such as Athens, Sparta, Thebes, and others, which played critical roles in the Persian Wars. 5. **Battle Sites**: It might mark important battle sites from the wars, like Marathon, Thermopylae, Salamis, and Plataea. 6. **Latin Labels**: The use of Latin for place names and descriptions adds to the map's scholarly quality. 7. **Cultural Landmarks**: The map may include locations of significant cultural and historical landmarks from the era, such as temples, theatres, and agoras. This map is from the "Spruner-Menke Atlas Antiquus," compiled by Karl Spruner von Merz and edited by Theodorus Menke. The atlas, known for its detailed maps of historical and ancient geographies, was a significant educational tool in the 19th century. The Greco-Persian Wars, which included famous battles such as Marathon and Salamis, were crucial for the preservation of Greek independence...

Antique map titled 'Eastern Persia'. Original map of Eastern Persia. This map originates from 'Lowry's Table Atlas constructed and engraved from the most recent Authorities' by J.W. ...

Antique Map with Title: "Mappemonde en Deux Hémisphères" Publication Details: - **Atlas Title:** Nouvel Atlas Universel de Géographie Ancienne et Moderne - **Purpose:** For the Nouvelle Edition de la Géographie de Guthrie - **Mapmakers:** P. F. Tardieu, with contributions from various geographical works - **Publisher:** Chez Hyacinthe Langlois, Libraire, quai des Augustins, n° 45 - **Year:** An X - 1802 (French Revolutionary Calendar) **Geographical Scope:** This antique map illustrates a double-hemisphere world map, showing both the Eastern (Old World) and Western (New World) hemispheres. It provides a global perspective, capturing the entire known world as understood in the early 19th century. **Map Features:** - **Hemispheres Displayed:** - **Western Hemisphere:** The Americas, labeled as "Hémisphère Occidental ou Nouveau Monde...

Antique map titled 'Pas kaart van de Noord Kust van Espaniola (..)'. Beautiful sea chart of the northern part of Hispaniola, western Cuba. The map includes the Turks & Caicos Islands and southern part of the Bahamas. Shows Guanahami or S. Salvador. Guanahani is an island in the Bahamas that was the first land in the New World sighted and visited by Christopher Columbus' first voyage, on October 12, 1492. It is not known precisely which island it was, and several theories have been put forth by historians. Guanahani is the native Taíno name; Columbus called it San Salvador. Originates from 'De Nieuwe Groote Lightende Zee-Fakkel'. Published by J. van Keulen, circa 1684. The Van Keulens were a family of chartmakers and publishers. The firm, In de Gekroonde Lootsman (In the Crowned Pilot), was founded in 1678 by Johannes van Keulen (1654-1715). Van Keulen originally registered his business as a vendor of books and instruments (specifically cross-staffs). In 1680, however, he gained a privilege from the States of Holland and West Friesland for the publication of pilot guides and sea atlases. In that year, van Keulen released his Zee-Atlas (Sea Atlas), which secured him a name in the competitive maritime publishing market. In 1681, he published the first volume of Nieuwe Lichtende Zee-Fakkel (New Shining Sea Torch). This would be the first of an eventual five volumes originally published between 1680 and 1684. A sixth volume was added in 1753. The Zee-Fakkel won van Keulen lasting fame. The atlas had charts compiled by Claes Jansz Vooght and artwork from Jan Luyken...

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 print titled 'Le Serpent à plusieurs Testes: dans le Labyrinte de Versailles'. This print illustrates the fable 'The Snake with several heads' of the labyrinth of Versailles ...

Antique map titled 'Dépt. du Jura'. Map of the French department Jura, France. Jura is a department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in Eastern France. Named after the Jura Mo...

The image shows two maps side by side from the 1882 atlas by Blackie & Son. On the left, the map is titled "BURMAH SIAM AND ANAM," while the one on the right is labeled "JAPAN." **B...

1750 Map of the Kingdoms of Spain and Portugal by Robert de Vaugondy Description: This map, titled *"Royaumes d'Espagne et de Portugal,"* was created in 1750 by the esteemed French ...

This is an antique map titled "Nieuwe Kaart van Tartarie," which translates to "New Map of Tartary." The map was created by Isaak Tirion, a prominent Dutch cartographer and publisher...

Antique map titled 'Veronae Urbis Terratorium'. Original antique map of the Verona region, Italy. Centered on Verona, and including Mantua, and Lago de Garda. Published by A. Orteliu...

Original antique map titled 'Circulus Saxoniae Superioris'. Original antique map of Saxony, Germany. The cities of Leipzig, Freiburg and many others are highlighted in gold. This map originates from 'Atlas Novus Terrarum Orbis...

John Tallis & Company, often simply known as Tallis, was renowned for the production of maps and illustrated geographical publications in the mid-19th century. Tallis maps, such as t...

Southwestern U.S. Immigration Map - Published by The Southwestern Immigration Company, Austin, Texas. Detailed Railroad Routes and Regional Statistics for Texas, Arkansas, and Louisi...

Antique map titled 'Canada West and Part of Canada East'. Original antique map of Canada West and Part of Canada East with inset map of Montreal. This ...

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...

Antique print, titled: 'Prospect der Stadt Damiat.' - Tab VIII. View of the city of Damietta, Egypt. From 'Reisebeschreibung von Arabien und anderen umliegenden Landern (1774-1778)...

This map, titled "Guyane" (French Guiana), is part of the Petit Atlas National series, focusing on French colonies. Here are the key elements of the map and its context: Features: -...

Antique map Australia titled 'Part of South Australia'. Decorative map of part of South Australia, surrounded by illustrations of Adelaide, natives on a catamaran, an Australian dog and a nymphicus bird illustrated. Originates from 'The Illustrated Atlas, And Modern History Of The World Geographical, Political, Commercial & Statistical, Edited By R. Montgomery Martin'. Published; John Tallis London, New York, Edinburgh & Dublin. 1851. Drawn and Engraved by J. Rapkin. Artists and Engravers: John Tallis (1817-1876) was a British map...

Antique map titled '14th Chart of the Coast of France, from Port Vendres to the Petit Rhône'. Original map with later hand coroling of the coast of Southern France. The "14th Chart of the Coast of France, from Port Vendres to the Petit Rhône" is an antique map that offers a detailed depiction of the southern coast of France, specifically highlighting the Mediterranean coastline. This map, which dates back to 1793, was originally part of "Le Petit Neptune Français; Or, French Coasting Pilot," a publication designed for maritime navigation along the French coastlines. Key Features of the Map: 1. **Geographic Coverage**: - The map covers the southern French coastline from Port Vendres in the west to the Petit Rhône in the east. - It includes notable regions such as Languedoc, the Gulf of Lyon, and parts of Catalonia (Spain). 2. **Notable Places**: - **Montpellier**: A major city in the Diocese of Montpellier, an important cultural and economic center. - **Narbonne**: Located in the Diocese of Narbonne, a historical city with Roman heritage. - **Agde**: Situated in the Diocese of Agde, known for its ancient Greek colony origins. - **Béziers**: Part of the Diocese of Béziers, another city with deep historical roots dating back to Roman times. - **Port Vendres**: A critical port near the Spanish border. - **Catalonia**: Including parts of northeastern Spain, emphasizing the coastal connection between France and Spain. 3. **Dioceses and Regions**: - The map is marked with various dioceses such as Montpellier, Agde, Narbonne, and Béziers, indicating ecclesiastical boundaries. - It highlights the broader region of Languedoc, a historical province known for its wine production and medieval history. 4. **Navigational Aids**: - The map features a compass rose with radiating lines, a common navigational aid in maritime maps...

Antique print titled 'Nicaea Civitas'. Original antique print with a view of the city of Nice, France. Rare in this edition. Source unknown, to be determined. Artists and Engraver...

Title: "The Station used by the great Mandaryns Staetsie der groote Mandarijns / The Station used by the great Mandaryns Staetsie der groote Mandarijns. 1665. The richly illustrat...

This extensive map of India, spanning two sheets, draws from Reynell’s original map and incorporates data provided by Sir Archibald Campbell, as well as surveys conducted by Colonel ...

Antique map titled 'Frisia Occidentalis.' - A very decorative map of the Dutch province Friesland, also showing the Wadden islands Terschelling and Ameland. With coats of arms of the...

Antique map titled 'Kaartje van Asia'. Original antique map of Asia. This map originates from 'Nieuwe Natuur- Geschied- en Handelkundige Zak- en Reisatlas' by N.T. Gravius, 1788....

Title: Huum opp. condrusorum caput (...) Anno partae salutis 1574. **Type:** Print (Colored Copper Engraving) **Year:** Circa 1580 **Technique:** Colored Copper Engraving **Medium:...

Antique map titled 'Partie Septentrionale de la Couronne de Castille (..)'. Decorative and highly detailed map of Northwestern Spain, including Gallicia...

Antique map titled 'L' Asie Divisee en ses Empires, Royaumes, et Etats'. Attractive, large map of Asia including all of Southeast Asia. The cartography is archaic for the period with...

Facsimile with 30 large format VOC nautical charts in limited and numbered edition. Sjoerd de Meer, Frits Loomeijer (The Treasure of Corpus Christi) - ...

This antique map is a historical map of the province of Santander (currently known as Cantabria) from the year 1901. Santander is located along the northern coast of Spain, bordering...

John Tallis & Company was a British map-making firm that gained widespread acclaim in the 19th century, particularly known for their detailed and artistically embellished maps. The f...

Antique map titled 'Indes IVe Feuille'. Very decorative original antique map of the East Indies. Covbers from the Gulf of Siam (Gulf of Thailand) and Malacca (Malaysia) eastward to i...

This is the “New Census Edition” of Clason’s United States Green Guide. It features two large maps of the United States on a single sheet. The recto map shows the complete road net...

Antique print, titled: 'Hasselt.' Bird's-eye view plan of Hasselt in The Netherlands. With key to locations and coats of arms. Text in Dutch on verso. This plan originates from the famous city Atlas: 'Toneel der Steeden' published by Joan Blaeu...

Antique map titled 'Nieuwe Kaart van Spanje en Portugal.' Attractive detailed map showing Spain and Portugal. Including Majorca, Minorca and Ibiza. Title in block-style cartouche wit...

Antique map titled 'Carte de la Perse, de la Georgie, et de la Tartarie Independante'. Map of Persia, Georgia and Kazakhstan. This map shows current days Georgia, Iran, Irak, Kaz...

This antique map, titled "Les Royaumes d'Angleterre d'Escosse et d'Irlande," offers a detailed view of the British Isles, including England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. Additionall...

The 1876 map titled "Carte des Colonies Françaises aux Antilles" represents a significant contribution to cartography within the "Grand Atlas Départemental de la France de L'Algérie ...

Description: Antique map titled 'Delineato Regionis Bassora cum Angis uminibus et Isulis.' Map of the Bassora (Basra) region, Iraq. Artists and Engravers: Made by 'Olfert Dapper' ...

Antique map titled 'De Gelegentheyt van 't Paradys en 't Landt Canaan'. Dutch Bible map covering the region between the Mediterranean and the Persian Gulf, ...

Antique map titled 'Nuova Carta del Europa Turchesca (..)'. This is an Italian version of Tirion's detailed map of the Black Sea, Balkans, and Asia Minor. It is embellished with a si...

Original antique map titled "Graecia Sophiani." This is a very detailed and decorative engraved map, with two decorative cartouches and a hand-colored initial on the verso, from Abra...