Hand-Colored Map of Persia, Gujarat and Malabar Coasts, 1773

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1773 bellin map of persia, gujarat and malabar coasts with arabia and maldives : this finely engraved and delicately hand-colored … Read more 1773 bellin map of persia, gujarat and malabar coasts with arabia and maldives : this finely engraved and delicately hand-colored 18th-century map titled kaart van de kusten van persië, guzaratte en malabar was produced by the eminent french cartographer jacques-nicolas bellin and engraved by jakob van der schley. It was published in 1773 in amsterdam by e. Van harrevelt and d. Changuion, as part of a dutch edition of bellin’s maritime atlas focused on the east indies and the indian ocean. The map presents the coastline bordering the arabian sea, extending from the persian gulf and parts of the arabian peninsula to the shores of gujarat and the malabar coast in southwestern india. It provides a detailed representation of the coastlines of persia (modern-day iran), the western coast of india, and a portion of southern arabia including the oman peninsula. Coastal towns, rivers, ports, and geographical landmarks are clearly labeled, including prominent trading centers like surat, goa, calicut, cochin, and cape comorin (now kanyakumari). Additionally, the map shows the laccadive islands (laka dives) and the maldives (maldivische eilanden), with attention to navigational details such as shoals, sandbanks, and anchor points. A large compass rose and clear latitude and longitude markings enhance its utility as a navigational aid. A highly decorative title cartouche at lower left features maritime iconography such as sea creatures, a fountain, and shells. An inset legend beneath the map provides explanations in dutch for the symbols used to indicate bays, capes, ports, forts, islands, and towns. This is a copperplate engraving printed on laid paper with full original hand coloring. It retains its original fold lines as issued. The condition is generally good, with minor age toning and a few light spots in the margins. No repairs or restoration are visible. The paper is strong, and the impression remains crisp and clear. This historical map is a significant and attractive example of 18th-century european cartography, especially valued for its depiction of maritime trade regions and coastal geography during the age of exploration and colonial expansion. See less