Blaeu - Map of the World

Blaeu - Map of the World
This remarkable, originally hand-colored engraving is from Willem Janszoon and Joan Blaeu's Toonel des Aerdrycks ofte Nieuwe atlas, dat is Beschryving van alle Landen... the Dutch edition of Theatrum Orbis Terrarum. The work was published in Amsterdam by Joan Blaeu between 1642 and 1655 (1661).

The Dutch edition of Blaeu’s Theatrum Orbis Terrarum is the most complicated of the editions of this atlas. The text was reset at least four times, and the general title page shows many different dates from 1642 to 1661. However, the resetting of the text and the change of the date on the title page were not at the same time. (Van der Krogt)

Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571-1638), Jan's father, founded the famous Blaeu cartographic firm in Amsterdam. He studied astronomy and science under Tycho Brahe. He established a globe and instrument making business in 1599 which soon expanded into cartography publishing. It became one of the most important publishing firms in the world that was also later run by his sons Cornelis and Jan. Their maps are noted for their fine engraving process, coloring, and design and are often referred to as "the highest expression of Dutch cartographical art." He also served as the official cartagropher for the Dutch East India Company in 1630.
Joan (Johannes) Blaeu (1596-1673) began the publication of the Nuevo Atlas in 1659 and would eventually change the title to Atlas Mayor. It was to be his most famous atlas, and was meant to include up to 13 volumes, but only 10 volumes were ever completed as his printing house was destroyed by fire. He was also noted for the publication of the atlas Theatrum orbis Terrarum.


Paper Size: ~ 23" by 19 3/4" (Fold Out)

The maps from the work are in generally very good to excellent condition. Due to age, some of the maps may exhibit handling or minor marks to be expected with age. There may be a few minor old restorations. There may be a few minor imperfections or faint marks to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.
~ 23" by 19 3/4" (Fold Out)