This stunning three-dimensional bird's-eye view of Venice was first published by Jan Jansson in his townbook of Italy in 1657. Van der Aa updated the copperplate by eliminating the coat of arms, updating a number of the sailing vessels, and adding a new title cartouche featuring the lion of St. Mark's, a female figure representing the city of Venice, and two winged African natives. The view extends to include the neighboring islands of Murano, Burano, Torcello and Mazorbo. Individual buildings, the lagoon, canals filled with gondolas, and the Doge's barge are shown in minute detail. Printed on two sheets, joined. This is one of the most decorative and sought-after views of Venice.

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Condition: A

Superb impression and color with full, original margins on watermarked paper. Issued folding with expert repairs to a binding trim at bottom right, an adjacent binding tear that enters less than 1/2" into image, a 1/4" tear adjacent to joint, and a few minor tears and fold separations in the blank margins.