Antique Map of the Seine-et-Marne/Champagne region by Janssonius (1657)

Description: Antique map of France titled 'Valesium Ducatus Valois'. Oriented to the north of the Picardy region with Compiegne, Senlis, Meaux, Chateau-thierry and Soissons around the perimeter. Three corners of the map are ornamented with the royal arms, scales and title cartouche with two gentlemen and their hounds. The region is today included in the modern day department of Seine-et-Marne. The region is known for fine wines, including Champagne, which partially overlaps ancient Valois, and France's best Brie Cheese, Brie de Meaux. This map originates from 'Atlas Novus, Sive Theatrum Orbis Orbis Terrarum: In quo Galliae, Helvetiae (..)' by J. Janssonius (1656-1657). 

Artists and Engravers: Johannes Janssonius also known as Jan Jansson (1588-1664) was born in Arnhem, Netherlands. His father was a bookseller and publisher (Jan Janszoon the Elder). When he married the daughter of the cartographer Jodocus Hondius he also set up a business as book publisher in Amsterdam. His first map was published in 1616. Around 15 years later he set up a partnership with his brother in law Hondius add issued further editions of the Mercator/Hondius atlas. After his death his heirs still have published several maps. Many of his plates have been acquired by Pieter Schenk and Gerard Valk.