Item number: CSMT328
Genuine Antique Map
1643
Maker: Blaeu
Rare first-state of Blaeu's map of the North Pole, 1643. The northern polar area was of significant interest due to the hope of a Northwest Passage that would allow ships from Europe to sail north of the Americas in order to reach Asia more easily. This map shows the latest information available but much is still unknown, as shown by the incomplete coast lines of many land forms. This map features four ships sailing the seas, eight beautiful compass roses, a decorative cartouche featuring figures and the winds blowing in every direction, and the scale of miles features hunters with foxes and a bear. Blaeu revised the map in 1645, and published a new version with the addition of the coats of arms of dedicatee Gulielmo Backer. Hand-colored. Very good antique condition with some mild toning and foxing, center fold as issued with slight coloration along center fold. Text on verso in French. Measures approx. 21.5 x 16 inches to the neatline.
Genuine Antique Map from 1643
Item Number: CSMT328