1662 – W. J. Blaeu – Nova et Accuratissima Totius Terrarum Orbis Tabula

Title:                      “Nova et Accuratissima Totius Terrarum Orbis Tabula Auctore Joanne Blaeu”
​
Description:
A superb double hemisphere world map and one of the earliest world maps to incorporate the discoveries of Tasman in Australia and New Zealand.
Since its appearance as an Appendix in 1630, the atlas launched by Willem Blaeu and continued by his son Joan had expanded greatly. But in spite of many new regional maps the world map remained unchanged. For some reason Joan Blaeu’s important wall map of 1648 was not immediately adapted by his firm for atlas use.
The New World map prepared by Joan Blaeu for his eleven-volume ‘Atlas Maior’ in 1662 is, unlike its predecessor, in two hemispheres. Outside the twin hemispheres at the top are celestial figures seated amid clouds: below are representations of the four seasons with each allegorical figure seated in an appropriate chariot quaintly drawn by pairs of beasts and birds.
As with all productions by the firm of Blaeu, the engraving and layout and elegance of decoration are all of the highest standard.​

Map Maker:       Hessel Gerritsz /  Willem Janszoon Blaeu
Sheet size:         47,4 x 55,3 cm
Place / Date:​       Amsterdam / 1662
Technique:         copper engraving
​
Condition:
​Dutch text on verso. Very good impression. Paper very slightly age toned, with some paper wrinkling along center fold. Some marginal tears and old repairs.
​
This is a genuine antique map published in 1662 and not a modern copy or reprint!