Framed Map of Greece

25.5"x30"

Born in Amsterdam in 1596, Joan Blaeu became a partner in his father’s book trade and printing business, en route to establishing himself as the most widely known cartographic publisher of the 17th century. Blaeu published several collections of maps and his 12-volume Atlas Nova, issued in 1663, which included 593 engravings of the earth, sea, and sky was one of the largest and most prestigious publishing projects of the Baroque. Maps became fashionable collectors’ items during this period, and Blaeu set out to make them as beautiful as possible. A dedicated and revered mapmaker, Blaeu employed the best engravers, printers, and colourists and only used the finest materials, including paper, to produce his works. As the present map exhibits, each work was created with a high level of topographical detail – particular emphasis being placed on the range of mountainous terrain in this case – and a variety of ornate features. For instance, a colourful cartouche occupies the lower left corner of the map of Greece and decorative ships populate different sections of the work. The combination of these elements creates a map that is both functional and of exceptional beauty. Specially framed by J. Pocker & Sons of New York, this map epitomizes the craftsmanship and artistry of the Blaeu workshop. 

At this time in Amsterdam, Dutch burgomasters began investigating the possibilities of constructing a new town hall for the Dutch capital. In 1648, Haarlem born artist and architect, Jacob van Campen (1596–1657), drew the assignment to design the new town hall. That same year, the Dutch Republic became an independent state as part of the agreement to the Peace of Münster between the United Provinces of the Netherlands and the Spanish Empire. To celebrate this key event, Amsterdam wanted to dedicate the new town hall to Peace. Accordingly, instead of placing a statue of Justice on top of the building’s façade, a statue of Peace would crown the structure, underlining this important moment in Dutch history.