Bidspirit auction | Blaeu, pub. 1640 - Map

Blaeu, pub. 1640 - Map of New England [Nova Belgica et Anglia Nova] - This remarkable, originally hand-colored engraving is from Willem Janszoon and Joan Blaeu's Theatre du Monde ou Nouvel Atlas , the first French edition of Theatrum Orbis Terrarum . The work was published in Amsterdam by Joan Blaeu in 1640. 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 cartographer 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 3/4” by 21 1/4” (Fold Out) Paper Type or Special Features: Originally Hand-colored Engraving