c.1650's Antique Hand Colored Map of China - Framed

Details

Description

17th-century engraved map of China and surrounding regions as understood by European cartographers in the mid-1600s. Rendered with finely detailed … Read more 17th-century engraved map of China and surrounding regions as understood by European cartographers in the mid-1600s. Rendered with finely detailed provincial divisions, early coastal geography, and period interpretations of Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia, the map is distinguished by its ornate cartouche reading “China Veteribus Sinarum Regio nunc Incolis Tame dicta,” flanked by allegorical figures.

The original hand coloring highlights borders, coastlines, and islands, while the inclusion of German mileage scales (Gemeine Teutsche Meilen) reflects its Central European atlas origins. Likely produced in the circle of Matthäus Merian or related German-Dutch mapmakers, this work embodies the intellectual and decorative sophistication of early modern cartography and makes a compelling statement piece for libraries, studies, or interiors with classical or scholarly sensibilities. The map is presented in a later giltwood frame with a multi-line mat, ready for display.

This map is in very good antique condition, with age-appropriate toning, foxing, and light handling wear throughout, consistent with a mid-17th-century engraving. The hand coloring remains well preserved. The frame shows some surface wear, and the matting has some foxing throughout, as shown. Please see all photographs and closeups for the exact condition.

It measures 22.5" wide by 19.75" tall, with a sight size of 13.75" by 11". See less