Bilder Jodocus Hondius (1563–1612) – Map of the Strait of Magellan (South America) – Engraving (1606)

Beskrivning

This engraving presents a detailed topographical and maritime map of the southern tip of South America, titled Freti Magellanici ac novi Freti vulgo le Maire. The composition illustrates the complex geography of the Strait of Magellan and the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, marking numerous bays, headlands, and interior mountain ranges. The surrounding waters of the Mar del Norte and Mar del Zur are embellished with a prominent compass rose, sailing vessels, and whimsical sea monsters. A large decorative strapwork cartouche in the lower left corner contains the title, while a smaller cartouche in the upper section provides a geographical key. The map includes an inset depicting the newly discovered Le Maire Strait, reflecting the expanding geographical knowledge of the early seventeenth century. Territorial boundaries and coastal features are accentuated with varied hand-colored outlines in pink, yellow, and green. 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.