Dutch Map of Brazil by Charles Burki, 1947

Details

Description

This original 1947 pen-and-ink map of Brazil by Charles Burki (1909–1994) exemplifies the artist’s precision, clarity, and distinctive mid-century graphic … Read more This original 1947 pen-and-ink map of Brazil by Charles Burki (1909–1994) exemplifies the artist’s precision, clarity, and distinctive mid-century graphic style. Executed in fine black linework on cream paper, it blends cartographic accuracy with decorative artistry, a hallmark of Burki’s postwar illustration period. The map presents Brazil’s geography, resources, and agricultural zones in striking black-and-white contrasts, accompanied by a clear Dutch legend: “Weide Gronden” (pasturelands), “Woudgebied” (forested areas), “Granen” (grains), and “Metalen (ontgonnen)” (mined metals). Major cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Manaos are identified, along with rivers like the Rio Negro, Rio Madeira, and the Amazon. A beautifully detailed compass rose and a sailing ship in the lower right corner lend the map a maritime flair reminiscent of early exploration charts. At the bottom left, an inset notes “Tierra del Brasil, in 1500 ontdekt door de Portugeezen,” a reference to the Portuguese discovery of Brazil. This historical nod, combined with Burki’s crisp Art Deco typographic choices, places the map stylistically within the postwar Dutch educational and commercial design tradition, when Burki worked on geography and economic illustrations for magazines and publishing houses such as *Uitgeverij Succes*. Burki’s map combines educational purpose with graphic elegance. The dense black patterning of economic zones contrasts with the clean coastal lines and ship engraving, demonstrating his background as both illustrator and architect. His compositional sense is evident in how the title “BRAZIL” anchors the lower border, balanced by the inset and ship vignette, making this piece both informative and visually commanding.

Condition report: Very good condition with minor toning consistent with age, small traces of mounting tape on margins, and light handling marks. The printed surface remains crisp, with rich blacks and clean lines.
Technique: Pen and ink on paper Maker: Charles Burki (Dutch-Indonesian, 1909–1994), signed and dated 1947 See less