West Asia & the Holy Land · 17th century
€ 1 900
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition overall. Original hand coloring. Light age toning and minor scattered spotting consistent with age. Central fold as issued. Margins ample. No restorations observed.
Holy Land Map of the Twelve Tribes of Israel – Sanson, Hand Colored, 1696
This impressive and richly hand-colored map of the Holy Land depicts the biblical territories of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, published in 1696 by the eminent French cartographer Guillaume Sanson. One of the most influential mapmakers of the late 17th century, Sanson played a central role in shaping modern historical and biblical cartography through clarity, balance, and scholarly rigor.
The map presents Judea, Samaria, Galilee, Idumea, and the Transjordan regions with clearly delineated tribal divisions, dense place-names, and carefully rendered rivers, coastlines, and mountain ranges. The Jordan River and Dead Sea are prominently shown, anchoring the geography both visually and symbolically. Original hand coloring enhances the tribal boundaries while maintaining harmony across the composition.
An elaborate decorative title cartouche with allegorical and biblical figures underscores the sacred and historical significance of the subject. This combination of scholarly precision and decorative appeal is characteristic of Sanson’s work and explains why his Holy Land maps were widely collected and reissued well into the 18th century.
Maps of the Twelve Tribes were fundamental tools for understanding biblical history and were used by theologians, scholars, and educated collectors throughout Europe. Today, fine examples such as this are prized for both their intellectual content and their strong visual presence, making them equally suitable for a private library, study, or prominent interior setting.
This is a confident, display-ready example of late 17th-century French Holy Land cartography by one of its most important makers.
Condition report:
Good condition overall. Original hand coloring. Light age toning and minor scattered spotting consistent with age. Central fold as issued. Margins ample. No restorations observed.
Framing tips:
This map frames beautifully with a walnut or dark oak frame and a wide off-white or parchment mat. For a more classical look, a muted antique gold frame with a narrow profile enhances the hand coloring without overpowering the image.
Technique: Engraving with original hand color
Maker: Guillaume Sanson, Paris, 1696
