Bilder Jodocus Hondius (1563–1612) – Map of the Bishopric of Osnabruck (Germany) – Engraving (1606)

Beskrivning

This engraving presents a detailed topographical and political map of the Bishopric of Osnabruck in northwestern Germany, titled Osnabrugensis Episcopatus. The composition illustrates the territorial boundaries of the region, marking numerous towns, villages, river systems, and forested areas. A prominent feature of the map is a large inset at the bottom left providing a panoramic profile view of the city of Osnabruck, highlighting its cathedrals, fortifications, and urban skyline. The map is further embellished with three decorative cartouches: a large strapwork title cartouche, an elaborate coat of arms in the upper right, and a regional map inset in the lower right. Territorial borders are accentuated with varied hand-colored outlines in yellow, pink, and green to distinguish the bishopric from neighboring lands such as the County of Tecklenburg. This illustration was published as a technical plate for the Mercator-Hondius Atlas to provide the public with the most accurate geographical data available at the beginning of the seventeenth century.

Jodocus Hondius was a Flemish engraver and cartographer who played a critical role in the golden age of Netherlandish mapmaking. He is most famous for acquiring the copper plates of Gerardus Mercator and publishing expanded editions of the Mercator Atlas, which helped establish the work as the standard geographical reference of the era. Hondius was skilled in both the technical and artistic aspects of map production, often incorporating elaborate calligraphy and decorative illustrations into his cartographic designs. His workshop in Amsterdam became a primary center for the dissemination of new geographical discoveries, significantly advancing the scientific accuracy and visual quality of European maps.

Artist or Maker: Jodocus Hondius .

Dimensions: Approximately 48 cm x 55 cm .

Medium: Engraving .

Date: 1606

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.