Catalog Archive
Auction 187, Lot 177

One of the Most Important 17th Century Maps of the Chesapeake Bay

"Nova Virginiae Tabula", Hondius/Blaeu

Subject: Colonial Mid-Atlantic United States

Period: 1640 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.9 x 14.8 inches
48 x 37.6 cm
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This map was derived from Capt. John Smith's map of 1612, which was the first to depict the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries with any accuracy. The early settlement of Jamestown is noted as Iamestowne, and there are a number of other place names, both English and Native American. In the upper left corner is an engraving of the great Indian chief, Powhatan, seated on his throne and surrounded by his subjects. A Susquehanna chief is depicted on the right under the British coat-of-arms and a key cartouche. The plate was engraved by Dirck Grijp and was originally published by Jodocus Hondius Jr. in 1618. It was purchased by Willem Blaeu shortly after Hondius' death (1629) and Blaeu's imprint replaced that of Hondius. Latin text on verso, published between 1640-55.

References: Burden #193; Portinaro & Knirsch KXXIV; Tooley (Amer) p. 161-62; Van der Krogt (Vol. II) #9410:2.2.

Condition: B+

A nice impression on a lightly toned sheet with faint foxing, marginal soiling, and mat burn outside the image. There is an archivally repaired tear in the top blank margin and remnants of paper tape along the top edge of the sheet on verso.

Estimate: $1,800 - $2,100

Sold for: $1,100

Closed on 4/27/2022

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