Rare Old Map of Zeeland by Ortelius, 1584: Rotterdam, Antwerp, Delft, Triton, Sailing Ships

Step into the world of 16th-century cartography with "Zelandicarum Insularum Exactissima Et Nova Descriptio," a masterful creation by the illustrious Abraham Ortelius in 1584. This exquisite map, part of Ortelius' groundbreaking "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," the first modern atlas of the world, offers a detailed political and physical depiction of Zeelandia. The map is adorned with an ornate cartouche, sailing ships, and a Triton riding a sea monster, carrying the coat of arms of the province, capturing the essence of maritime navigation and mythological artistry of the Renaissance era.

Abraham Ortelius, a pioneering figure in the world of cartography, is celebrated for his meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair. His works are not merely maps but pieces of art that reflect the geographical knowledge and aesthetic sensibilities of his time. Ortelius' maps are highly regarded for their accuracy and decorative elements, making them prized possessions for collectors and historians alike. This map of Zeelandia is a testament to his genius, showcasing his ability to blend scientific precision with artistic beauty.

The map's design is a visual feast, featuring rich colors and intricate illustrations that bring the region of Zeelandia to life. The detailed coastline and islands are meticulously rendered, providing a clear and accurate representation of the area. The decorative elements, such as the ornate cartouches and mythological figures, enhance the map's appeal, making it a captivating piece for any collection. The inclusion of sailing ships and a Triton riding a sea monster adds a touch of whimsy and highlights the importance of maritime navigation during this period.

Zeelandia, as depicted in this map, is a region teeming with historical and geographical significance. The map includes prominent cities and towns such as Rotterdam and Antwerp, which were crucial centers of trade and commerce in the 16th century. The detailed depiction of rivers, waterways, and rural landscapes provides a glimpse into the natural beauty and strategic importance of the region. The borders of neighboring regions such as Holland, Brabant, and Flanders are clearly marked, reflecting the political landscape of the time.

This map is not just a geographical representation but a historical document that offers insights into the world of the late 16th century. It reflects the blend of science and mythology that characterized Renaissance cartography, with its accurate geographical details and artistic embellishments. The presence of coat of arms, compass roses, and scale bars adds to its historical value, making it a fascinating piece for anyone interested in the history of cartography, maritime navigation, or the rich cultural heritage of Zeelandia.

Cities and towns on this map

• Rotterdam (modern-day population: ~651,446)
• Antwerp (modern-day population: ~529,247)
• Delft (modern-day population: ~103,163)
• Middelburg (modern-day population: ~48,544)
• Vlissingen (modern-day population: ~44,451)
• Goes (modern-day population: ~37,000)
• Zierikzee (modern-day population: ~10,000)
• Bruges (modern-day population: ~118,284)
• Ghent (modern-day population: ~262,219)

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Ornate cartouche with the map's title and creator.
• Triton riding a sea monster, carrying the coat of arms of Zeelandia.
• Multiple sailing ships depicted in the surrounding waters.
• Detailed coastline and islands of Zeeland.
• Decorative compass rose.
• Borders of neighboring regions such as Holland, Brabant, and Flanders.
• Rivers and waterways prominently illustrated.
• Forested areas and rural landscapes.
• Coat of arms of various regions and cities.
• Scale bar indicating measurement units.

Historical and design context

• This map is a highly detailed political and physical map of Zeelandia.
• It includes an ornate cartouche, sailing ships, and a Triton riding a sea monster while carrying the coat of arms of the province.
• The map is part of Ortelius' "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," the first modern atlas of the world.
• Rotterdam is visible near the top edge of the map, and Antwerp is close to the bottom edge.
• Date of creation: 1584
• Mapmaker/Publisher: Abraham Ortelius
• Ortelius was a renowned cartographer known for creating the first modern atlas.
• His works are highly regarded for their artistic and geographical accuracy.
• Topics and themes: Political and physical geography of Zeelandia, maritime navigation, and mythological elements.
• Countries and regions shown: Zeeland (Netherlands), parts of Flanders (Belgium), Holland, and Brabant.
• Design and style: Rich colors, detailed illustrations, ornate cartouches, and mythological figures.
• Historical significance: Reflects the geographical understanding of Zeelandia in the late 16th century, importance of maritime navigation and trade, and the blend of science and mythology in Renaissance cartography.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.