"Nova Belgica et Anglia Nova", Blaeu, Willem

This important map, first issued in 1635, is one of the first to name Nieu Amsterdam. It is based on the manuscript of Andriaen Block (1614), a Dutch fur trader, who explored the area between Cape Cod and Manhattan and was the first to correctly delineated the longitudinal scale of the coastline and establish Manhattan as an island. The colony of Nieu Pleimonth is identified, as well as other English names along the coast, which were derived from Smith's map of New England in 1616. The map is oriented with north at right and is richly adorned with a variety of wildlife, including the first appearance of beavers, polecats and otters on a printed map. A large Mohawk village is shown according to the de Bry-White engravings. It is further embellished with a large title cartouche flanked by two natives, sailing ships, canoes, and compass roses.

References: Burden #241; Goss (NA) #28, Schwartz Pl. 58.

Condition: A

Toned with a bit of faint foxing. Professionally backed with Japanese tissue repairing marginal tears and stabilizing oxidation of original color. Color refreshed.