Suffolcia Vernacule Suffolke - Suffolk County Map By Joan Blaeu - 1648 Edition ANTIQUE
Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571-1630) established his famous Dutch firm of cartographers and publishers in the late 16th century. Starting out as a manufacturer of globes and other scientific instruments the business potential of cartography was quickly recognised. With the help of his two sons, Joan (Johannes) and Cornelis expansion followed. After purchasing a few map plates from the talented engraver Jococus Hondius the firm quickly grew into one of the largest and foremost publishing houses of atlases and maps in the 1700's. Based in Amsterdam the Blaeu's workshop made use of the best engravers and printmakers available at their time. Blaue's maps were held in high esteem by many, including Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. So much so that he painted a Blaue map in great detail as part of the background in three of his famous paintings.
This original Suffolk county map was part of the 'County Atlas of England and Wales' that Joan Blaeu published in 1645. This atlas was regarding as a true masterpiece of its time. Joan was a true perfectionist, and this can be clearly seen by the craftsmanship and artistry needed to produce a map of this level of quality. It is a truly decorative piece, with its beautifully ornate cartouches, the heraldic shields and fine calligraphy. As is often the case with maps of this age, the colour was hand applied but at a later date. The map was supplied as a centre-fold, the fold line across the centre, with text printed on the reverse.
A highly collectable original map that has been cleaned with the utmost care and professionally re-mounted with high quality acid-free board. It is now safely fitted to its new mount and behind 3mm clear acrylic glazing that protects against UV rays. The map is sealed from dust, and a bespoke black wooden frame completes the presentation.
The print is in very good condition, ready to be displayed. The map was placed onto sturdy cardboard by a former owner and the advice is to leave it in position. At the same time the clear margins and the outer line of the double edge border made way for the print to fit into its old standard frame. The map has a number of small marks, completely consistent with its age. This beautiful and super decorative antique map is presented in a fresh modern way and will be an amazing addition to any interior.
