1671 Arx Carolina
By: Arnoldus Montanus
Date: 1671 (published) Antwerp
Dimensions: 11 x 13.75 inches (28 x 35 cm)
This is a fine example of a mid-seventeenth century landscape engraving. Depicting in full color and featuring a developing French Huguenot settlement (what is now Jacksonville, Florida), Montanus’ print was first published in 1671.
Arnoldus Montanus shows a wide panoramic view from a high vantage point, depicting a triangular shaped fort with soldiers’ quarters. In the foreground are French ships and Indigenous peoples in canoes. In the lower right corner, Frenchmen can be seen interacting with Indigenous locals among palm trees and other vegetation. Interestingly, Montanus depicts the landscape on the horizon as mountainous and rugged, despite Florida being one of the flattest areas of the United States.
Centered at the top of the frame is a sprawling scroll with the map’s title over carefully drawn cloud formations. Montanus’ engraving shows a fine eye for detail and a fascinating portrait of the area during the brief period of French colonization in the area, from 1562-65.
Condition: This map is in B+ condition displaying a strong impression with even toning and bright color. Top right corner has been cut away with no loss to the map image.
Inventory #12074
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