Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1574
Sheet size
32 × 19.5 cm (12.6 × 7.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-02788
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
The map is in good condition, with vibrant coloring and sharp impressions. Light foxing, some creases and marginal toning are present, typical for a map of this age. The paper remains stable and the original woodcut lines are crisp and well-defined.
About this sheet
Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe, Overijssel – Antique Map by Sebastian Münster, 1574
This rare and finely colored woodcut map of Northern Netherlands depicts the provinces of Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe, and Overijssel. The map, originally created by the renowned German cartographer Sebastian Münster (1488–1552), was published in 1574 in the Cosmographia Universalis, the most significant and famous cosmographical work of the Renaissance. The publication was printed by Heinrich Petri (1508–1579) in Basel and is celebrated for its comprehensive and richly illustrated content.
Sebastian Münster was a highly influential geographer, cosmographer, and scholar of the 16th century. His Cosmographia, first published in 1544, became one of the most widely read books of its time, being translated into several languages and frequently reprinted. It combined geography, history, and ethnography, offering a vivid portrayal of the known world during the Renaissance. The maps featured in the work were among the earliest to include detailed depictions of various European regions, including the Northern Netherlands.
The present map, titled Von der Friesländer Nammen und der Statt Grüningen, showcases the distinct regional boundaries and the intricate network of waterways that define the landscape of Friesland and its neighboring provinces. The map is rich in geographical detail, featuring major cities such as Groningen, Leeuwarden, Meppel, Enschede, and Zwolle. Each city is marked by a small red building symbol, while waterways and seas are vividly colored in shades of blue. The map’s Gothic script title and the decorative coat of arms add a touch of elegance to its historical presentation.
What makes this map particularly remarkable is its combination of cartographic accuracy and artistic embellishment. The hand coloring, applied at a later date, enhances the visual appeal and preserves the Renaissance aesthetic typical of Münster’s work. The clear depiction of the 'Zuiderzee' (Südersee) and its surrounding ports reflects the significant maritime influence in the region’s development.
The map’s style is emblematic of the transitional period between medieval and modern cartography, combining practical geographic knowledge with artistic flourishes. The text at the bottom of the map provides a brief historical and cultural introduction to Friesland and Groningen, emphasizing their importance in the broader context of the Dutch provinces.
Framing tips: Framing with a classic dark wood or ebony frame and an acid-free mat would not only protect the piece but also emphasize its historical significance and antique charm.
