Art

A splendidly decorative and striking map of the areas of Lothian and Linlithgow in Scotland by premier seventeenth century Dutch cartographer Joan Blaeu, from his wonderful multi-volume work entiled "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" or "Novus Atlas". The map centres on Edinburgh, and takes in the outlying towns of Rosslyn, North Berwick, Haddington, Linlithgow and Dunbar. The map is enhanced by a number of decorative features; a compass rose in The Firth of Forth, scrolled title cartouche and mileage scale and a most attractive dedication. The Blaeu maps of Scotland are uncommon, as they were only produced between 1654, the date of their first printing, and 1672, the year of the fire that destroyed the Blaeu printing house. This is a much shorter period of time than for most of the other Blaeu maps. Size: 530 x 625 mm. Copperplate engraving with beautiful early hand colour. Dutch text on verso. Some water staining and mild damp stains to margins, small repaired tear to lower central margin, otherwise in very good condition.