Rare!, unfinished "PROOF STATE".  Brabant (north) and 's-Hertogenbosch:  Quarta pars Brabantiae cujus caput Sylvaducis / Willebordus vander Burght describ. Apud Guiljelmum Blaeu

Original copperplate printed map
Uncolored as issued
415 x 525 mm
Map # E-306
$ Sold
 

This is a rare proof state of Blaeu's map of Brabant (north).  This marvelous map is only found in the relatively scarce Novus Atlas by Willem Blaeu, published in Amsterdam in 1634-35.  The proof state does not have the coats of arms on the left and right sides of the map.  This map was quickly replaced by the addition of blank shields for the coats of arms, and then later with the addition of the coats of arms.  There may be other, minor differences between this proof state and the subsequent states of the map. 

The map shows Brabant with the areas of 's-Hertogenbosch, Helmond, Eindhoven, Megen, Ravenstein and Grave.  The map has a decorative title cartouche at the top right, two blank side panels topped by winged cherubs and two large coats of arms for Brabant and 's-Hertogenbosch.

Willem Janszoon, or Willem Jansz Blaeu (1571-1638) as he is more commonly known, was one of the most noted Dutch cartographers and map publisher of the 17^th century.  R.V. Tooley stated that Blaeu’s maps are "esteemed by collectors for their decorative quality, historical importance, and as the highest expression of Dutch cartographic art during the period of its supremacy" (Tooley, p 28).  

After preparation as a pupil of the great Danish astronomer, Tycho Brahe, Blaeu initially concentrated on globe making and separately published maps, including wall maps of the continents.  From 1608, he dominated the market for sea atlases and in 1630 produced his terrestrial atlas.  These atlases were continued by his sons, culminating in the great Atlas Maior of 1662 in 11 volumes with subsequent editions.  The map of Brabant was prepared for Blaeu by Willibrordus van der Burgt, as noted in the title cartouche.

References:  Reiss & Sohn Auktion 98/II, 20-22 April 2005, map #3647 with image. Konigstein, Germany.  Van der Kogt, Peter.  Koeman's Atlantes Neerlandici.  vol.II, p.527.

Fine Condition.  A fine, dark impression.  Considered one of the more decorative maps prepared and published by the Blaeu family.