Mercator Cloppenburgh edition 1630 miniature map of Japan with Korea as an Island
Iaponia
Out of stock
Description
Early miniature map of Japan and Korea from the rare Cloppenburg edition slightly larger format and more scarce edition of the Mercator/Hondius “Atlas Minor”.
The Cloppenburg edition was continued for a couple of years but seems to have been suppressed after 1636 … (Koeman Atlantes Neerlandici).
Based on the 1595 Abraham Ortelius map, but with added decoration, this is an early depiction of both Japan and Korea.
While still shown as an island, Hondius added the explanation that it was uncertain if Korea was indeed an island or part of the mainland. Spelled Corea, the island is shown in a somewhat triangular form.
Japan is in the old “kite tail” delineation and does not yet include Hokkaido to the north.
Verso Text: French. Engraved by Pieter Van Den Keere.
Cartographer(s):
Gerardus Mercator (March 1512 – 2 December 1594) was a 16th-century geographer, cosmographer, and cartographer from the County of Flanders. He is most renowned for creating the 1569 world map based on a new projection that represented sailing courses of constant bearing (rhumb lines) as straight lines—an innovation that is still employed in nautical charts.
Mercator was one of the pioneers of cartography and is widely considered the most notable figure of the Netherlandish school of cartography in its golden age (approximately 1570s–1670s). In his own day, he was notable as a maker of globes and scientific instruments. In addition, he had interests in theology, philosophy, history, mathematics, and geomagnetism. He was also an accomplished engraver and calligrapher.
J.E. CloppenburghCondition Description
Good and dark impression. Right hand margin cut close, shaving the neat line. Light water stain in right hand part. Else in good condition.
References
Broecke, Ortelius 13.
