Engraved Map of Frankfurt with Decorative Coats of Arms from Blaeus, 1663

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This map, titled "novam hanc territorii francofurtensis tabulam," is an exquisite hand-colored engraved map from around 1663, created by the … Read more This map, titled "novam hanc territorii francofurtensis tabulam," is an exquisite hand-colored engraved map from around 1663, created by the renowned cartographers j. And c. Blaeu of amsterdam. It features a striking decorative border embellished with numerous coats of arms and various allegorical figures, all highlighted with touches of gold. The map itself, slightly yellowed with age, offers a detailed portrayal of the frankfurt territory, capturing the geographical and political nuances of the era. This piece stands out as a testament to the blaeu family's craftsmanship and the artistry of map-making in the 17th century. Joan and cornelis blaeu present this new map of the frankfurt territory to the esteemed and honorable leaders of frankfurt—sheriffs, burgomasters, aldermen, and councillors—renowned for their nobility, wisdom, and integrity. This tribute is offered with profound respect to these venerable guardians of the city and republic, known for their incorruptibility and benevolence. The map is adorned with the 34 coats of arms of frankfurt's magistrates along its borders. Above the map, allegorical representations of justice (justicia), counsel (consilium), unity (concordia), and peace (pax) are displayed, symbolizing the virtues upheld by the city's leadership. The emblem of the holy roman empire accompanies justice, while peace features the city's coat of arms. Potential buyers of blaeu's lavish atlases likely included frankfurt's mayors and their council of magistrates, whose heraldic symbols encircle the map. Although not specifically a town plan or a detailed topographical representation, the map primarily aims to honor the influential ruling class. Despite a rebellion aimed at the magistracy twenty-five years earlier, the repeated family names and coats of arms illustrate the persistent oligarchic structure within society, indicating the rebellion's failure to effect change. The blaeus—willem janszoon, cornelis, and joan—are distinguished figures in seventeenth-century cartography. Willem janszoon blaeu, originally from uitgeest, studied under tycho brahe and established himself in amsterdam as a maker of globes, instruments, and maps, later becoming the official hydrographer of the v.o.c. His sons, cornelis and joan, continued his legacy, with joan succeeding him as the hydrographer of the v.o.c. And later producing the renowned atlas major. The blaeu printing house remained influential until its decline after a devastating fire in 1672 and joan blaeu's subsequent death in 1673, with the business ultimately ceasing in 1695 after a public auction of its assets. See less