Bilder Henricus Hondius II (1597–1651) – Map of the Archduchy of Austria – engraving (c. 1630)

Beskrivning

This engraving presents a detailed geographical map of the Archduchy of Austria, encompassing the territories of Upper and Lower Austria along the Danube River. The composition highlights the rugged Alpine topography to the south and the rolling hills of the Bohemian Forest to the north, featuring a dense network of towns, villages, and fortified sites. The central course of the Danube is meticulously rendered as the primary artery of the region, flowing past major urban centers. Decorative elements include a prominent baroque title cartouche in the upper right corner draped with ornate fabric and floral garlands. In the lower center, a second architectural cartouche contains an explanation of geographical terms and a scale of miles, topped by a heraldic shield. The work was published as part of the expanded Mercator-Hondius atlas, reflecting the sophisticated cartographic standards and political geography of the Holy Roman Empire during the seventeenth century.

Henricus Hondius II, also known as Henricus Hondius the Younger, was a distinguished Dutch cartographer, engraver, and publisher active in Amsterdam. Born into a celebrated family of mapmakers, he continued the legacy of his father, Jodocus Hondius, by expanding and refining the influential Mercator-Hondius atlas series. Working often in collaboration with his brother-in-law Jan Jansson, Henricus produced updated maps that were renowned for their geographical accuracy and artistic embellishments. His publications played a crucial role in maintaining Amsterdam's status as the global center of cartography during the seventeenth century, documenting the evolving political and geographical landscape of Central Europe.

Artist or Maker: Henricus Hondius II.

Dimensions: Approximately 48 cm x 55 cm.

Medium: engraving.

Date: c. 1630.

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.