Indonesia, Moluccas, Ternate.. W. Blaeu, 1635, Moluccae Insulae Celeberrimae

Rare early edition of Blaeu's important and highly decorative folio sized map of the Spice Islands (Moluccas).

Wonderful, highly decorative cartouche. The map features a large inset of the Island of Bachian (Batjan) in an elaborate frame as well as a Moluccan couple in the lower right corner in Europeanized native dress. Indicative of the area's commercial importance, Blaeu has filled the seas with both European and local ships, two of which are engaged in battle. Sea monsters and decorative compass 2 roses are also shown.

Published in 1635 by W. Blaeu in Amsterdam in the first French edition of´Le Theatre du monde...´. Signed by W. Blaeu in the bottom right corner.

Excellent condition. Some minimal age browning in the central fold. Thick paper. Clear print. Very wide margins. Nice hand coloring. Reverse side text in French.

Image 37x49cm, sheet 49x60cm