"[Lot of 2] Ducatus Uplandia [and] Gothia", Blaeu, (Family)

This lot includes two maps of southern Sweden. The maps have no text on verso indicating they were issued after the demise of the great Blaeu publishing empire, as these were among the plates auctioned in 1677 following the fire that destroyed the printing house. Size varies slightly.

A. Ducatus Uplandia. A decorative map of the area around Stockholm with well-engraved detail of the interconnected waterways from the Baltic through to Lake Malaren and its tributaries. The map is embellished with a number of coats of arms with the heraldry for Uppsala being the most prominent. The map is dedicated to Michael le Blon in the lower left, while farmers and allegorical figures flank the title cartouche on the right. Condition: A few faint spots and paper has been added in bottom blank margin to repair several chips. (B+)

B. Gothia. This map of the southern part of Sweden depicts the forested topography, lakes and numerous place names. The large cartouches have a military theme with Mars and his fierce hounds atop the title. The map is further embellished with several sailing ships and coats of arms. Condition: Scattered foxing with paper added in blank margins to repair several chips, several of which enter map border, with some loss of image. (C+)

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Condition:

Both maps are backed with Japanese tissue. See description for additional details.