Blaeu - Wallia Principatus vulgo Wales

Date: 1645-1648

Condition: A

Colour: Original

Size: 395 by 515mm

Title: 'Wallia Principatus Vulgo Wales'.

A decorative map of Wales published in "Guil. et Ioannis Blaeu Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, sive Atlas Novus - Part IV", Amsterdam, Joan Blaeu, 1645, 1646. Many decorative elements include an elaborate title cartouche and a Royal dedication along with coasts of arms and ships at sea.

In good condition with vibrant original colour. Some minor margin repairs and sold in a mount.

Ref: Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571-1638) was the founder of the Blaeu publishing house and established the fine reputation of Blaeu maps. In 1634 he commenced publication of the "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" or "Novus Atlas" and on his death he was succeeded by his son Johannes (1596-1673). Johannes continuously enlarged and updated the "Theatrum" up to 1658, including adding a separate volume devoted to England and Wales. In turn, the "Theatrum" was itself expanded to form the magnificent "Atlas Maior". Blaeu maps are renowned for the consummate care and attention apparent in every stage of production - using only the best paper with finely engraved plates and a high standard of printing. The county maps are no exception and often depict the coats of arms of those families with important county links, as well as decorative title cartouches. "The finest Dutch map publishers were the Blaeu family, and they hold the title of mapmakers supreme for any period of cartographical history." (R. Baynton-Williams, "Investing in Maps").