Visscher - Map of Province of Hainaut (Belgium, France)

Visscher - Map of Province of Hainaut (Belgium, France)
This exceptional map with beautiful original hand-coloring is from the Visscher family's Atlas minor sive totius orbis terrarum contracta delineat ex conatibus. The map available is from a composite atlas Atlas minor published by Nicolaes (Nicholas) Visscher in Amsterdam between 1649 and 1700.

Visscher's Atlas Minor has often been referred to as "the most spectacularly illuminated atlas known." The hand-coloring on the maps is wonderfully executed.

The Visscher family created a leading map publication house in Amsterdam in the 17th & 18th centuries. Nicolaes Visscher I founded the publishing firm and quickly his and his family's maps became noted for his quality engravings, ornamental details, and accuracy of cartography.

Claes Jansz. Visscher or N.J. Piscator (1587-1652) established the publishing house on Kalverstraat in Amsterdam, originally 'de gulden Bors', and renamed it "In de Visscher". His work on Dutch landscapes and historic scenes brought him to prominence. He originally purchased the copperplates of Pieter van den Keere's Germania Inferior to publish his first atlas.

Nicolaes (Nicholas) Visscher I (1618-1679) was a Dutch engraver, cartographer, and publisher. He came from a prominent family of cartographers including his father, Claes Janszoon Visscher, and son, Nicholas II. Visscher maps are known for their exceptional detailed engraving work. In 1664, Nichoaes I became a member of the Bookseller's Guild. He obtained rights to protect his maps from reproduction from Holland and West Friesland in 1677 for 15 years.

Nicolaas Visscher II (1649-1702) took over the publishing business for his family after his father's death where he moved the shop to the Dam.. He obtained rights to continue to protect their maps from reproduction from Holland and West Friesland in 1682. It allowed the family's firm to continue producing the highest quality maps, atlases, and globes. It cemented the Visscher legacy. His son, Nicolaes III, and widow, Elizabeth Verseyl, continued the business after his death until hers in 1726.


Paper Size: ~ 24" by 21" (Fold Out)


Paper Type or Special Features: Originally Hand-colored Engraving

The work is in very good to excellent condition overall. The plates may exhibit some occasional tears, occasional creases, or signs of handling. There may some minor offset due to the fold out nature of the plate. Generally considered excellent condition for the age. There may be a few minor imperfections or faint marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.