1629 Two 17th Century Maps of the Netherlands Near Rotterdam
Novissima Delflandiae, Schielandiae et circumiacentium insularum ut Voornae… Novissima Tabula Insular. Dordracensis, Alblasser, Crimper, Clundert…
Map By: Balthazar Florentio a Berckenrode
This large decorative map of the Netherlands and adjoining low country was created by joining two maps of Holland. With titles in Latin and text in French on the verso, the map offers a detailed study of the region.
The map depicts ports, cities, towns, settlements, fortifications and other topographical features such as heavily forested areas. City streets, main roads and byways are delineated. The myriad waterways of this region of Holland are named in Dutch and rendered in detail. Multiple seagoing vessels embellish the map as do two title cartouches featuring fruits and floral designs. The verso contains extensive historical observations in French.
Henricus Hondius published these maps in 1629, and in the title cartouches acknowledges Balthazar Florentio (aka Florizs) van Berckenrode, a cartographer and printmaker who personally conducted surveys of the territories which are depicted. Breckenrode is well known for his highly detailed map of Amsterdam which was said to have depicted every house of the city.
The maps were considered the best and most definitive of the region and were published for some time following the deaths of both Berckenrode and Hondius.