N. Van Geelkercken, Dutch City Plan of Workum in Friesland, 1616, Paper

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Workum in friesland by nicolaes van geelkercken, hand-colored map ca. 1616 this beautifully hand-colored engraving titled 'worcum' presents an early … Read more Workum in friesland by nicolaes van geelkercken, hand-colored map ca. 1616 this beautifully hand-colored engraving titled 'worcum' presents an early 17th-century bird’s-eye view of the historic frisian city of workum, located in the northern netherlands. It was published in 1616 as part of rerum frisicarum historia by ubbo emmius, a foundational work chronicling the history and geography of friesland. The cartographer, nicolaes van geelkercken (1585–1656), was a dutch mapmaker and land surveyor known for his precise and decorative cartographic works, often commissioned for historical and municipal publications. Rendered in vibrant hand-applied colors, the map vividly illustrates the walled layout of workum with detailed depictions of buildings, waterways, gardens, windmills, churches, and town defenses. Notable landmarks include the 'groote kerk' (the large church), prominently positioned in the center-right with three domed towers, and the 'raadhuis' (town hall), shown on the town’s market square. The canals—such as 'die delft', 'het vliet', and 'noorder eijnd'—are shown with boats, emphasizing the city's integration with inland waterways for transport and trade. This plan is oriented with the west at the top and is adorned with a decorative cartouche in the upper right featuring the city’s coat of arms—an eagle divided by a cross—and another inscription cartouche in the lower right that dedicates the map to the city council (opp. Worcumi cons. C.s.). The delicate balance between cartographic accuracy and pictorial charm makes it not only a historical document but also a fine example of early modern dutch map art. This map is a superb addition for collectors of dutch city plans, friesland history, or 17th-century cartography. Its early depiction of urban development in the northern netherlands offers valuable insight into the architectural and civic landscape of the dutch republic during the golden age. Condition report: overall good condition. Hand-coloring well-preserved. Minor age toning and small edge tears, mostly confined to margins. Centerfold as issued. Slight creasing at the edges, but image area remains strong and clean. Framing tips: frame in warm walnut or black wood with uv-filtering glass. Use a soft cream or antique white mat to accentuate the vibrant hand coloring. Leave a wide margin to showcase the cartouches and edge details. See less