On offer: an original (i.e. not a later reproduction) antique map "Episcopatus Dunelmensis. Vulgo The Bishoprike of Durham."
A decorative and desirable 17th Century Map of County Durham. The map contains the usual Blaeu decorations; including the royal coat of arms together with those of the noble families of the county and scenes of local life. A description of the county appears verso in Latin. A strong dark impression in good condition. No repairs or significant issues.
DATE PRINTED: Date of the first edition: 1645-46. There were several re-issues between then and 1672 when most of Blaeu's plates were lost in a fire which engulfed his Amsterdam premises. Therefore printed c.1660.
SIZE: The printed area of the view, including titles, is approximately 510 x 390 mm (20 by 15.25 inches) (large) plus margins and a centre fold as issued.
ARTIST/CARTOGRAPHER/ENGRAVER: Drawn by Joan Blaeu. Joan Blaeu (23 September 1596 – 21 December 1673) was a Dutch cartographer born in Alkmaar, the son of cartographer Willem Blaeu.
PROVENANCE: This map was published by Joan Blaeu (1596-1673). The Blaeu workshop, based in Amsterdam, produced the most magnificent atlases and maps of the period, the time in which the Netherlands was experiencing its 'Golden Age' in art, science and commerce. A true perfectionist, Blaeu used only the best engravers, printers and colourists and only the finest materials, including paper, to produce his atlases. In 1645 he published a county atlas of England & Wales as part of his 'Theatrum Orbis Terrarum' series. Each map epitomised the craftsmanship and artistry of the Blaeu workshop being finely detailed with ornate cartouches, cherubs, heraldic shields and calligraphy. Later in 1662, the maps reappeared in volume five of his 'Atlas Maior' which is perhaps the finest cartographic work ever produced in the history of map making.
TYPE: Antique copper plate engraving printed on paper.
VERSO: There is Latin text printed on the reverse side.
CONDITION: Very Good; suitable for framing. Please check the scan for any blemishes prior to making your purchase. Virtually all antiquarian maps and prints are subject to some normal aging due to use and time which is not significant unless otherwise stated. I offer a no questions asked return policy.
AUTHENTICITY: This is an authentic antique print, published at the date stated above. I do not offer reproductions. It is not a modern copy. The term 'original' when applied to a print means that it was printed at the first or original date of publication; it does not imply that the item is unique.
RETURNS POLICY: I offer a no questions returns policy. All I ask is that you pay return shipping and mail back to me in original condition.
POSTAGE / SHIPPING COSTS: I only charge postage for the first print ordered. There is no additional postage charge if you order more than one print.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
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