Tuscany Map Blaeu

unique piece from #privatecollection of #ancientmaps - offered Copper engraving, colored by contemporary hand. Taken from the Latin edition (rare!) of the Atlas Novus published in Amsterdam in 1640 ca.
The Atlas Major is the result of the immense work of the Blaeus and is unanimously recognized as one of the high points in the history of cartography. The work of the Blaeus was interrupted in 1672 when the great fire of Amsterdam destroyed the workshop and a large part of the plates. The following year Johannes died and the remaining plates were dispersed and purchased by rivals Frederick De Wit, Schenk and Valk. The publishing house closed definitively in 1695.

Scattered foxing, text on verso, some edge losses and partially divided centreline. Engraving not affected.