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Description
A striking and richly detailed early map of Bermuda by the famed Dutch cartographer Willem Janszoon Blaeu, published circa 1635–1650 …
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A striking and richly detailed early map of Bermuda by the famed Dutch cartographer Willem Janszoon Blaeu, published circa 1635–1650 during the golden age of Dutch mapmaking. This exquisitely engraved chart, titled Mappa Aestivarum Insularum alias Bermudas, depicts the Bermuda archipelago oriented with north to the right, as was customary for early sea charts.
Based on the influential 1626 survey by John Norwood, the map meticulously divides the island into the original tribes or parishes, identifying early landholders and settlements. Decorative elements include an elaborate title cartouche flanked by Neptune, tridents, and naval emblems, a compass rose, armorial bearings, and scale bars in English, German, and Dutch miles. The engraving retains exceptional line clarity and is beautifully hand-colored in watercolor with hues of crimson, ochre, green, and cobalt.
This example has been newly matted and framed using conservation-grade materials, including museum glass. The original frame, which was structurally compromised and not historically significant, was replaced to better preserve and present the map. While the sheet appears to have been trimmed within or near the platemark (as is common in antique framing and atlas disbinding), the engraving retains full visual integrity, vibrant coloration, and excellent detail.
Dimensions: Framed: 26” W x 20.75” H x 1” D |
Sight: approx. 16” H x 21” W (estimated)
A fine and highly decorative example of early 17th-century cartography, and a seminal image in the visual history of Bermuda.
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- Dimensions
- 26ʺW × 1ʺD × 20.75ʺH
- Styles
- Traditional
- Frame Type
- Framed
- Period
- 17th Century
- Country of Origin
- Netherlands
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Glass
- Paint
- Paper
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Green
- Condition Notes
- Light age toning, scattered foxing, and expected handling wear. The map has been professionally rematted and reframed using archival materials, … moreLight age toning, scattered foxing, and expected handling wear. The map has been professionally rematted and reframed using archival materials, including no-glare museum glass; the original frame was not retained due to structural deterioration and lack of historical significance. As is common with antique map framing, the margins appear to have been trimmed near or within the platemark. There are a few small, stable surface abrasions and areas of pigment loss—most notably in the sea near the compass rose, off the coast of Florida, and at the upper edge near Cape Cod. These do not detract from overall legibility or visual impact and remain commensurate with the map’s 17th-century origin. less
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