BLAEU, G. Moluccae Insulae Celeberrimae. Amsterdam, 1635-1638. Fine...

BLAEU, G. Moluccae Insulae Celeberrimae. Amsterdam, 1635-1638. Fine contemporary col. Browned paper. Framed (not examined out of frame). 370 x 480 mm This highly decorative map is the earliest large-scale map of the "Spice Islands". In addition to a sumptuous title cartouche, the map features the island of Bachian (Batjan) in a cardboard box, framed with an elaborate military motif, and a Moluccan couple in the lower right-hand corner. Revealing the region's commercial importance, Blaeu filled the seas with European and local ships, two of which are engaged in combat. Sea monsters and decorative compass roses add to the map's appeal. European maritime powers of the 16th and 17th centuries fought for dominant access to the riches of the Moluccas. The region was once considered the most important supply point for the spice trade between Asia and Europe. Expert: Béatrice Loeb-Larocque