Bidspirit auction | Gerardus Mercator And Jodocus Hondius

Gerardus Mercator And Jodocus Hondius - MERCATOR & HONDIUS MAP OF THE SPICE ISLANDS CIRCA 1630. Gerardus Mercator And Jodocus Hondius The Principal Islands of the East Indies, in which the Moluccas are the most famous. 17th Century The 17th century hand colored copperplate map by Gerardus Mercator and Jodocus Hondius (circa 1630 or earlier), is titled INSULAE Indiae PRAECIPUAE, In quibus Moluccae celeberrimae sunt, which translates to The Principal Islands of the East Indies, in which the Moluccas are the most famous. The cartography focuses on some of the most valuable real estate on earth in the 16th century, specifically the five islands of the Moluccas-Ternate, Tidore, Motir, Machian, and Bachian-famed for cloves, nutmeg, and mace. Further depicted are naval battles, sea monsters. It records the earliest European attempts to chart the coasts of New Guinea and Java and includes ornate strapwork, compass rose and botanical illustrations, presumably of cloves and spices. Printed text verso. Sheet measures 16.5 x 21.5 with a framed size of 19.75 x 25.75 inches. Without proof of exemption, be aware that internet sales tax applies to all Internet transactions and local sales tax may apply to local pick-up transactions. We happily provide seamless in-house packing and shipping services on nearly everything we sell. Until further notice, we cannot offer international shipping in-house. Dimensions Sheet measures 16.5 x 21.5 with a framed size of 19.75 x 25.75 inches. Condition Very good condition, not laid down or backed, no damage, stain, punctures, tears or repair. Provenance The estate of John Adair Jr. (1942-2025), founder and proprietor of Kurofune Antiques in Tokyo (est. 1978), a world-renowned destination for Japanese basketry, prints and furniture featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal.