Antique Map of Guangxi Province, 1655

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Title: Antique 17th-Century Map of Guangxi Province, China – "Qvangsii" by Blaeu, Richly Illustrated and Colored : This fascinating 17th-century … Read more Title: Antique 17th-Century Map of Guangxi Province, China – "Qvangsii" by Blaeu, Richly Illustrated and Colored : This fascinating 17th-century map of Guangxi Province, historically referred to as "Qvangsii," was crafted by Johannes Blaeu and published in 1655 as part of the *Novus Atlas Sinensis*. Blaeu’s atlas, created in collaboration with Jesuit missionary Martino Martini, introduced European audiences to the geography of China in an unprecedented way. Guangxi Province, known for its striking karst landscapes and important historical trade routes, is depicted here in remarkable detail. The map highlights the province’s topography, including mountain ranges, rivers, and towns, all meticulously engraved and labeled in Latin. It also captures key trade connections and cultural significance, as Guangxi historically served as a bridge between China and Southeast Asia. The decorative cartouche at the top left is adorned with figures in traditional Chinese costumes, symbolizing the cultural richness of the region and adding artistic elegance to the map. This map was engraved using the copperplate technique, known for its ability to produce fine, detailed lines. The hand-coloring further enhances the visual impact, clearly distinguishing territorial divisions and natural features. See less