Bilder Henricus Hondius (1597–1651) – Map of León, Biscay, and Guipúzcoa (France) – Hand-colored engraving (17th Century)

Beskrivning

This hand-colored engraved map provides a detailed cartographic representation of the northern regions of Spain, specifically León, Biscay, and Guipúzcoa. The composition captures the rugged topography of the area, featuring the Cantabrian Mountains and the coastline along the Bay of Biscay, which is embellished with sailing ships. A large, ornate strapwork cartouche in the lower right corner displays the title Legionis, Biscaiæ et Guipiscoæ Typus, while a smaller cartouche at the bottom provides a scale bar. This map originates from the renowned Mercator-Hondius atlas, a definitive source of geographical knowledge in Europe during the seventeenth century.

Henricus Hondius II was a distinguished Dutch engraver, cartographer, and publisher who played a pivotal role in the Golden Age of Dutch cartography. As the son of the famous mapmaker Jodocus Hondius, he continued the family legacy by expanding and updating the celebrated Mercator-Hondius Atlas. Collaborating with his brother-in-law Jan Jansson, Hondius produced maps that were noted for their elegant engraving style, geographical accuracy, and aesthetic appeal. His firm in Amsterdam became one of the leading cartographic publishing houses of the era, competing directly with the rival Blaeu family and disseminating geographical knowledge to a global audience.

Artist or Maker: Henricus Hondius.

Dimensions: Approximately 38 cm x 50 cm.

Medium: Hand-colored engraving.

Date: (17th Century).

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.