Latium.

Article description

Original antique hand-colored copper engraving, from Joan Janssonius's great 'Novus Atlas', published in Amsterdam, 1649. Depicting Rome & Latium, this map is a fine example of 1640s European cartography. Image: 35.8 x 49,3 cm (14 x 19,5 inches). An attractive and historically significant 17th-century map for the discerning collector. Johannes Janssonius (1588–1664), also known as Jan Jansson, was one of Amsterdam's most prolific cartographers and publishers of the Dutch Golden Age. His great 'Novus Atlas' (later expanded into the 'Atlas Maior') rivalled the output of the Blaeu firm and contained hundreds of maps covering the entire known world. Janssonius worked closely with Henricus Hondius and acquired many of the Mercator-Hondius plates, ensuring continuity with the finest cartographic tradition of the 16th century. His maps are distinguished by fine engraving, elaborate allegorical cartouches, and high-quality hand coloring. They are held in institutions worldwide, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Library of Congress. The map is ornated with a decorative ornated title cartouche in the lower left corner. The decorative mileage scale in the upper right corner is held by two angels. Villages and towns are shown as miniature views, as well rivers and mountains are engraved. A fine example from Novus Atlas / Atlas Maior, Amsterdam, sought after by collectors of antique maps of Italy, antique maps of Rome, and antique hand-colored copper engravings for sale. In good condition consistent with age. Light age-toning to the sheet, as expected for a 17th-century engraving. Centerfold as published.

Janssonius, Joan. – Rome & Latium · Copper Engraving, Hand Colored · Novus Atlas / Atlas Maior, Amsterdam · 1649