Montanus' view is the first European view of Osaka based on information obtained from one of the few European contacts with Japan during the 17th century. Kansei port is viewed from the sea with the city depicted as a large, thriving metropolis. The somewhat imaginary panorama includes a variety of sampans, fishing boats and barges in the bustling harbor. A legend keyed to the view identifies 24 specific structures. The view was first published in Amsterdam in 1669 in Montanus’s chronicle of an early Dutch embassy to Japan. This is the French edition, published by Cornelius de Bruyn, with the addition of a French title and key. Printed on two joined sheets, as issued.

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Condition: B+

Fine, sharp impression with a bit of minor soil and a few extraneous creases. There is professional reinforcement on one of the folds.