Sea Charts · 17th century
€ 5 750
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition overall for its age, with central fold as issued. Light toning and some minor foxing consistent with age. Wide margins. The engraving is sharp with attractive original hand coloring.
Blaeu Catalonia Map, Barcelona Spain, Mediterranean Sea, c.1642
A superb and highly detailed map of Catalonia, centered on Barcelona and the northeastern regions of Spain, engraved and published by Willem and Joan Blaeu in Amsterdam around 1642. This map originates from Blaeu’s celebrated atlas Toonneel des Aerdrycx, one of the most prestigious cartographic works of the Dutch Golden Age.
This visually striking composition captures the full richness of the Catalonian landscape, from the Pyrenees mountains in the north to the Mediterranean coastline in the south and east. Barcelona is prominently placed, surrounded by a dense network of towns, rivers, and roads, reflecting both the political and commercial importance of the region in the 17th century. The coastline is beautifully articulated, enhanced by rhumb lines, compass roses, and finely engraved ships navigating the Mediterranean, adding a strong maritime character to the piece.
The map is further elevated by its decorative elements, including a bold and colorful cartouche bearing the title “Catalonia” in the upper left, alongside a heraldic shield. The intricate engraving work and original hand coloring highlight regional borders and geographic features, creating a composition that is both informative and highly decorative.
Blaeu’s maps are among the finest ever produced, combining scientific precision with artistic excellence. This example stands out for its exceptional density of detail and its strong visual appeal, making it particularly desirable for collectors of Spanish cartography as well as for interior designers seeking a refined and historically significant statement piece.
A prime example of 17th-century Dutch cartography, ideal for collectors focusing on Spain, Mediterranean trade routes, or Blaeu atlas works, and equally compelling as a centerpiece in a sophisticated interior.
Condition:
Good condition overall for its age, with central fold as issued. Light toning and some minor foxing consistent with age. Wide margins. The engraving is sharp with attractive original hand coloring. Any small imperfections are typical for works of this period and do not detract from its overall presentation.
Framing tips:
This map works exceptionally well in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory mat to emphasize its warm tones and intricate detail. For a lighter, more contemporary interior, a slim black or bronze frame with a museum-style mount offers a refined and elegant presentation. A generous mat is recommended to give the piece strong wall presence.
Special note: This is an original 17th-century map, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Keywords:
Catalonia map, Barcelona map, Spain antique map, Blaeu Catalonia, 17th century map Spain, Mediterranean map, Barcelona antique map, Blaeu atlas map, Dutch Golden Age cartography, Iberian Peninsula map, Pyrenees map, Mare Mediterraneum, decorative antique map Spain, historical Spain map, Willem Blaeu map, Joan Blaeu map, old map Barcelona, Cataluna antique map, Spanish cartography 1600s, maritime map Mediterranean, collectors map Spain
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand coloring
Maker: Willem & Joan Blaeu, Amsterdam, circa 1642
