About this sheet
Antique Map of Noord-Holland – Sleeswijk Atlas, 1914
This finely detailed antique map of Noord-Holland was published in 1914 as part of the Sleeswijk Atlas, an important Dutch school atlas series widely used in the early 20th century. The map covers the entire province of Noord-Holland, extending from the island of Texel and the Waddenzee in the north to the vicinity of Leiden in the south. The cartography is rich with information, highlighting not only major cities such as Amsterdam, Haarlem, Alkmaar, Hoorn, and Enkhuizen, but also an intricate network of towns, villages, waterways, dikes, and reclaimed polders that define the Dutch landscape.
Insets of Terschelling and Vlieland appear in the upper left corner, showing their strategic position in the Wadden Sea. The legend (“Verklaring”) provides a clear key to roads, railways, tramlines, waterways, municipal boundaries, and polder limits, reflecting the infrastructure of the Netherlands at the dawn of the First World War. Red lines mark the expanding railway network, while waterways and canals are carefully delineated, emphasizing their central role in Dutch transport and trade.
The map is printed in soft tones with fine hand-colored outlines, typical of Sleeswijk atlas production. It reflects the balance between educational clarity and cartographic elegance, making it a fine representation of Dutch school atlases from the early 20th century. The lower margin bears the imprint of publisher A. Sleeswijk in Bussum and lithographer J. Smulders & Co. in The Hague.
This piece is not only a decorative historical map but also a document of the Netherlands’ continuous struggle and triumph over water through dike construction, land reclamation, and canal systems. Collectors of Dutch cartography and lovers of regional history will appreciate its historical depth and aesthetic appeal.
Condition report: Good condition with original centerfold as issued. Minor age toning and small handling signs along the margins. Plate mark visible. Colors remain clear and well-preserved.
Framing tips: A light cream or ivory mat will complement the soft coloring, while a thin black or dark wood frame will give the map a refined, classic presentation. For a more traditional appearance, a gilt frame adds warmth and enhances the historical character.
