1636 Indiae Orientalis Nova Descriptio
By: Jan Jansson
Date: 1636 (published) Amsterdam
Dimensions: 19 x 13 inches (48.25 x 33 cm)
This vibrant example of Jansson's map of the East Indies is regarded as a landmark map for Dutch cartography and the mapping of Australia. Not only does Jansson provide excellent geographical representation for the area of Southeast Asia and Malaysia and the Philippines but he also notes the first recorded European discovery of Australia.
In 1605 the Dutch East India Company was working to further develop their trade claims in the East Indies. Willem Janszoon the captain of the Duyfken was appointed by Jan Verschoor to discover new lands and further explore New Guinea. Janszoon set sail from Bantam (off the west coast of New Guinea) in 1605 and after crossing the east end of the Arafura Sea and missing the Torres Strait sailed right into the Gulf of Carpentaria. In 1606 Janszoon made landfall on the western shore of the Australian peninsula what is today known as Cape York Queensland. He proceeded to chart over 300 km of coastline the whole time thinking he was sailing along a southern extension of New Guniea. Turns out he was unknowingly becoming the first European to chart and undoubtedly make landfall on the great continent of Australia.
This map is the first to show the Janszoon's discoveries in New Guinea with reference given to his ship by labeling a chunk of land "Duyfkens Eylande." Also included in the map are two compass roses mermaids presenting a scale of Spanish and German miles rhumb lines sailing ship sea monsters and a decorative title cartouche flanked by two natives. The mapmaker and city of publication is noted in the bottom left corner. English text on verso.
Condition: Map is in A condition with a very minute hole along the coast of Borneo
Inventory #18440
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