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From the Atlas of Joan and Cornelius Blaeu. Fine map based on the travel notes by Isaac Massa (1586-1643), a Dutch merchant who repeatedly traveled to Russia. The data collected by Massa was widely used by many Dutch printers and cartographers of that period. It covers the southern part of the empire bordering the Caucasus. This detailed map of southern Moscovia locates Moscow, Smolensk and other cities. The Volga River runs along the right side down to Astrachan. The map is elaborately embellished with richly dressed people and wild animals flanking three cartouches. The figures at the bottom are dressed in furs, reflecting the contemporary interest in Russia as a fur-producing region. Joan (John) Bleau (1596-1673) was a son of a famous Dutch cartographer, Willem Janzoon Bleau, and he shared his father's passion and continued his work. Joan Bleau's 'Atlas Maior' is one of the most extraordinary work within this category ever produced. It is known for its exquisite engraving, calligraphy and colouring as well as heraldic detail, pictorial work and the intricate cartouches, which all amounted to the appeal of this work. In fact it is argued that some of the maps produced by Joan were considered to be the finest published anywhere in the seventeenth century. Size: (W x H): 53cm x 39cm / 21 inches x 15 inches. Date: ca.1635, Amsterdam.
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