Paraquaria vulgo Paraguay cum adjacentibus
Amsterdam: Johannes Blaeu, 1630.
Map. Copper plate engraving with original hand coloring. Image measures 17 3/4" x 21 3/4"
This striking map by Johannes Blaeu depicts the Rio de la Plata region in South America, showing Paraguay, Uruguay, parts of Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. Mountains and forests are elegantly rendered in pictorial detail. Indigenous groups are extensively noted throughout the region. Rivers, towns, cities, lakes, and topographic features are labeled. Two ships are depicted off the coast. This map features a poem to P. Vincentio Carrafa in the lower left. Text in Latin on verso. It is in very good condition with minor tears to edges, and minor soiling to lower margin, not affecting the image. Original centerfold as issued, some splitting . Engraved by Gerard Coeck.
One of the most prolific Dutch mapmakers of his time, Willem Blaeu (1571-1638) started one of the most famous map publishing firms of the 17th century. It was at this time that the Dutch controlled the map trade, and their ornate and beautiful maps had immense popularity. Blaeu and his family worked out of Amsterdam and was instrumental in driving this dominance in his lifetime, and this legacy was continued by his sons. This series was published by his son Johannes (c. 1599-1673), who took over the business upon his father's death.
Illustrator: Gerard Coeck
Binding: Unbound
Language: Latin
Price: $750.00
Item #326500