Bilder Henricus Hondius (1597–1651) – Map of Funen (Fionia) – Hand-colored engraving (17th Century)

Beskrivning

This hand-colored engraved map provides a detailed cartographic representation of the Danish island of Funen, titled Fionia. The map illustrates the island's central position within the Danish archipelago, surrounded by the Little Belt to the west and the Great Belt to the east, with neighboring islands such as Langeland, Ærø, and Als clearly delineated. The interior topography highlights the region's scattered forests, numerous settlements, and coastal inlets. The composition is embellished with a decorative strapwork title cartouche in the lower center and elegant calligraphic flourishes in the open sea areas. This work 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 atlas projects initiated by Gerard Mercator. 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 and Gerard Mercator.

Dimensions: Approximately 38 cm x 50 cm.

Medium: Hand-colored engraving.

Date: (17th Century).

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. Condition issues including minor pinholes, short tears and small areas of paper loss. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.