Catalog Archive
Auction 201, Lot 663

Attractive Example of Blaeu's Map of China Featuring Fictitious Lakes and Rivers

"China Veteribus Sinarum Regio nunc Incolis Tame Dicta", Blaeu, (Family)

Subject: China, Korea & Japan

Period: 1640 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, sive Atlas Novus...

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.6 x 16.1 inches
49.8 x 40.9 cm
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Several large lakes dominate the topography of this elegantly engraved map of China. The Great Wall forms the northern boundary of China. The fictitious Chiamay Lacus is shown with numerous rivers flowing south into India and Siam. Korea is depicted as a strangely shaped island separated from the mainland by a narrow strait. Taiwan is located in a roughly correct position, named as both Pakan al I. Formosa, with the additional place names of Gillira, Wankan, and Tayoan. The three main islands of Japan are shown on the Ortelius/Teixeira model. A fine title cartouche is flanked by a Chinese woman and man. The map is further adorned with a coat of arms (dedicated to Theodore Bas, a director of the Dutch East India Company), European ships and Chinese sampans. Latin text on verso, published between 1640-55.

References: Caboara #23; Van der Krogt (Vol. II) #8410:2A.

Condition: A

A fine impression with contemporary outline color and later wash color on a sheet with a large watermark of the god Atlas and a hint of toning along sheet's edges.

Estimate: $1,400 - $1,700

Unsold

Closed on 11/20/2024

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