Map of Suriname and the Dutch Antilles Colonial Atlas by W. J. Thieme, 1905

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This highly detailed antique Dutch colonial atlas map depicts Suriname together with the Dutch possessions in the Caribbean, including Curaçao, … Read more This highly detailed antique Dutch colonial atlas map depicts Suriname together with the Dutch possessions in the Caribbean, including Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, St. Martin, Saba, and St. Eustatius. Published circa 1905 by the respected Dutch publisher W.J. Thieme & Co. of Zutphen, the map reflects the geography and administrative structure of the Dutch colonial empire in the Americas during the early 20th century. The large central map focuses on Suriname in exceptional detail, showing rivers, mountain ranges, forests, settlements, indigenous territories, and colonial administrative regions extending far into the interior. The extensive river systems dominate the composition and illustrate the critical importance of waterways for transportation, plantation agriculture, and colonial expansion. Several inset maps provide additional geographic context: * the Dutch Caribbean islands including Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire, * the Dutch Antilles, * and a broader overview locating the Dutch colonies within northern South America and the Caribbean basin. Printed in a refined educational cartographic style with delicate original outline coloring, the map combines scientific clarity with decorative appeal. The soft pastel palette and balanced multi-map composition make it particularly attractive when framed. W.J. Thieme & Co. was one of the leading Dutch educational publishers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, producing high-quality school atlases and geographical works widely used throughout the Netherlands. Maps such as this served both educational and administrative purposes during the height of Dutch overseas colonial influence. Today, maps of Suriname and the Dutch Caribbean remain highly sought after for their historical significance, decorative quality, and connection to colonial history, migration, maritime trade, and the cultural heritage of the Dutch Atlantic world. Special note: This is an original antique atlas 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 with the original.

Condition report: Overall in good antique condition with age-related toning and minor handling wear consistent with early 20th-century atlas maps. Original fold lines as issued. Some light foxing and marginal wear visible. Original outline coloring remains attractive and well preserved. Please study the image carefully. Framing tips: This map displays beautifully in dark walnut, black lacquer, or lightly gilt frames paired with wide ivory mats. Its combination of Caribbean and South American colonial geography makes it especially suitable for libraries, studies, maritime interiors, or collections focused on Dutch colonial history. Technique: Color lithographic atlas map Maker: W.J. Thieme & Co., Zutphen, circa 1905 See less