1729 Tractus Norwegiae Danicus Magnam Dioeceseos Aggerhusiensis
By: Johann Baptist Homann
Date: 1729 (dated) Nuremberg
Dimensions: 18.5 x 21.5 inches (47 x 55 cm)
This striking map by Johann Baptist Homann features a southerly region of Norway in which its current capital, Oslo, is featured with its former name, Christania, still in use. Its former medieval name, Oslo, would be restored in the early 20th century. This example of the map is eye-catching in its focus, its coloring and its detail. The map provides a clear understanding of the topography, including roads, villages, towns and fortifications. Rivers, mountainous areas and forested lands are denoted.
In addition to featuring a large swathe of land in southern Norway, this splendid example of Homann’s map depicts a cross-section of a mining operation situated inside a mountain which is extraordinary in its detail. The hand coloring is of especial quality, detailing the mine with great precision, focusing on the various operations used in metals mining in the early 18th century.
The mining image extends over a third of the map in its depiction of various stages of metal mining, including power sources, the structures needed for the operation, the myriad duties of the miners, along with all the implements of the era which were used in such operations. It provides a fascinating portrait of the extraction of metal ore just before the start of the Industrial Revolution.
In addition to the spectacular mining scene, Homann has embellished the map with a decorative title cartouche featuring putti holding a frame around the title, on a background of clouds.
Condition: With masterful hand coloring, this beautiful map is in very fine condition. Damp staining has darkened a portion of the centerfold. A tiny hole near the centerfold is visible only on holding up to light.
Inventory #12374
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