Blaeu Map of Savoy & Alps, 1642

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Blaeu Map of Savoy & Alps, Geneva Piedmont France Italy, c.1642 : A finely detailed and highly decorative map of … Read more Blaeu Map of Savoy & Alps, Geneva Piedmont France Italy, c.1642 : A finely detailed and highly decorative map of the Duchy of Savoy, encompassing the Alpine regions between France, Switzerland, and northern Italy, engraved and published by Willem and Joan Blaeu in Amsterdam around 1642. This striking map originates from Blaeu’s celebrated atlas Toonneel des Aerdrycx, one of the most prestigious cartographic achievements of the Dutch Golden Age. The map presents a richly textured view of the Alpine landscape, with the Duchy of Savoy at its center, extending across present-day southeastern France, western Switzerland, and northwestern Italy. Major geographic features are rendered with exceptional clarity, including Lake Geneva (Lacus Lemanus), the Rhône Valley, and the imposing mountain ranges of the Alps, depicted in fine engraved relief. Key regions such as Piedmont, Dauphiné, and parts of Helvetia are carefully delineated, illustrating the strategic importance of this territory as a crossroads of European trade and power. The composition is enhanced by a beautifully colored cartouche in the lower right, crowned with the arms of Savoy and supported by cherubic figures, a hallmark of Blaeu’s decorative style. The original hand coloring highlights borders, rivers, and topographical features, giving depth and vibrancy to the mountainous terrain. Blaeu’s maps are renowned for their synthesis of scientific precision and artistic elegance. This example stands out for its dense engraving and dramatic topography, making it particularly appealing to collectors of Alpine regions, early modern European cartography, and those seeking a visually compelling statement piece. A superb and historically significant map, ideal for collectors of Blaeu atlas works, Alpine geography, or decorative maps of France, Switzerland, and northern Italy. Condition: Good condition overall for its age, with central fold as issued. Light toning and minor foxing consistent with age. Wide margins. The engraving remains sharp with attractive original hand coloring. Any small imperfections are typical for works of this period and do not detract from the overall presentation. Framing tips: This map displays beautifully in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory mat, emphasizing the intricate mountain engraving and warm tones of the paper. For a more contemporary look, a slim black or bronze frame with a museum-style mount offers a refined contrast. A generous matting is recommended to give the piece strong wall presence. Special note: This is an original 17th-century map, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale. Keywords: Savoy map, Alps map, Geneva map, Piedmont map, Blaeu Savoy, 17th century Alps map, Switzerland antique map, northern Italy map, French Alps map, Blaeu atlas map, Lacus Lemanus map, Rhône Valley map, Helvetia map, decorative antique map Alps, Willem Blaeu map, Joan Blaeu map, old map Savoy, Alpine cartography, collectors map Europe Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand coloring Maker: Willem & Joan Blaeu, Amsterdam, circa 1642 See less