Catalog Archive
Auction 173, Lot 411

"Macasar, Capitale du Roiaume de Meme Nom", Aa, Pieter van der

Subject: Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Period: 1729 (circa)

Publication: La Galerie Agreable du Monde

Color: Black & White

Size:
14.1 x 10.8 inches
35.8 x 27.4 cm
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This striking bird's-eye view shows the Indonesian city of Makassar, located on the southwest coast of Sulawesi. It depicts the city's buildings, roads, and fortifications in nice detail. In the foreground, the Makassar Strait is filled with ships, reflecting the city's status as a major trading port. Two putti fly above the scene holding the drape-style title cartouche aloft. During the reign of Makassar kings, the city adhered to a non-discriminatory free trade policy, building strong economic relationships with a variety of religious and ethnic communities. They resisted the Dutch East India Company's attempts to establish a monopoly on trade in the region until 1667, when a Dutch-Buginese alliance defeated the Gowan forces in Makassar. In the aftermath of this battle, the Treaty of Bongaya was signed, codifying Dutch power in the region and limiting the Gowans' trading opportunities.

References: Phillips (Atlases) #3485 v.58-6

Condition: B+

Issued folding, now flat, on watermarked paper with a few tears that enter approximately 0.5" into the image, all of which have been closed on verso with archival materials.

Estimate: $200 - $230

Sold for: $150

Closed on 6/5/2019

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