Subject: Japan & Korea
Period: 1666 (circa)
Publication: Atlas Contractus
Color: Hand Color
Size:
22 x 18 inches
55.9 x 45.7 cm
This superb folio map is very unusual because it is based on Jansson's small map (Iaponia et Terra Eso) from his Atlas Minor, rather than the other way around. It presents Japan on the model initiated by Dudley and then refined by Jansson with information from previously unpublished Dutch sources. The important Dutch discoveries of Marten De Vries relating to Ezo and the Kurils are shown as a huge Landt van Eso, Staten Eylant, and Compagnies Land, misrepresentations that would appear on maps of the region for the next 150 years. Korea is shown as a large island with a single place name, Tauxem, at the approximate location of modern P'yongyang. There are two decorative cartouches, one at top explaining the projection of the map and one at bottom right featuring the title surrounded by Japanese gentlemen. Four sailing ships and a sea monster fill the waters. Latin text on verso, published between 1666-75.
References: Hubbard #30; Walter #57 & OAG-30; Van der Krogt (Vol. I) #8450:1B.
Condition: A
Fine impression with a hint of toning along the centerfold and expert repairs to a tear in top margin and a centerfold separation in bottom margin.