A rare proof state of the Blaeu-Hondius map of Brazil

BLAEU, Willem Janszoon.

Novus Brasiliæ Typus.
Amsterdam, c.1630, blank verso. 380 x 495mm.

A very fine impression.

Brazil, orientated with north to the right. The title cartouche is of two indians, an inset map shows the area around Salvador, and vignettes copied from de Bry show a hammock, goats, a battle and cannibals cooking lunch.
The plate was engraved by Jodocus Hondius Jnr, son of the Jodocus who purchased the Mercator plates. When he died in 1629 many of his plates were sold to Blaeu, much to the chagrin of the Hondius firm run by Henricus Hondius and Jan Jansson, who were forced to rush the engraving of new plates.
This is a very early example of Blaeu's printing, probably a working proof: 'Septentrio' and 'Meridies' in the lateral borders are engraved with open letters; and 'Amstelodami Guilielmus Blaeuw excudit' is crudely engraved.


Stock ID : 19738