Copper plate engraving by François Valentyn, 1724-1726
€400.00
This authentic antique print, measuring 55 cm × 45 cm , created by François Valentyn as a fine example of Copper plate engraving work from the 18th Century (1700s).
Published by Joannes van Braam, it is preserved in Very Good condition and displays remarkable period craftsmanship.
1 in stock
This vintage Bengal map shows the Kingdom of Bengal in detail. Titled ‘Nieuwe kaarte van ‘t Koninkryk Bengale,’ Joannes van Braam published it in Dordrecht between 1724 and 1726. It appears in François Valentyn’s famous ‘Oud en Nieuw Oost-Indiën,’ a massive work on Dutch East India Company history. The copper engraving measures 45 by 55 cm. Folds show as originally issued, but the condition stays very good. Valentyn drew from his VOC journals and secret maps for accurate details of trade routes and settlements. This rare piece captures 18th-century Bengal, including parts of modern Bangladesh and West Bengal. Collectors prize it for its historical value and fine craftsmanship. Owning this vintage Bengal map brings Dutch colonial history and Asian cartography to your collection.
François Valentyn (1666–1727) was a Dutch minister, naturalist, and cartographer famed for his comprehensive work on Southeast Asia. He published an extensive multi-volume history entitled “Oud en Nieuw Oost-Indiën,” including detailed maps, coastal charts, and illustrations of the East Indies, particularly Indonesia. Valentyn’s cartographic work contributed significantly to European knowledge of Southeast Asia in the 18th century. Collectors value his maps for their historical importance and detailed artistry.
During the 18th century, mapmaking became more scientific and precise. Improved instruments like the telescope and chronometer helped cartographers increase accuracy, shifting maps from decorative art to factual documents. Copperplate engraving stayed as the main printing method, producing fine lines, while hand-coloring added visual impact. French cartographers, such as the Cassini family, led national surveys with geodetic measurements and triangulation, while Dutch mapmakers like Joan Blaeu enhanced printing and atlas quality, ushering in a golden age of atlases.
Maps began including more information and notes to help users, and ornate decorations mostly gave way to scientific clarity, except for cartouches and borders. National and colonial ambitions guided map production to aid navigation and territorial claims. By the late 18th century, large-scale surveys set modern cartography standards. Today, 18th-century maps mix scientific knowledge with artistry, are prized by collectors, and have influenced later cartographic methods. They offer insights into Enlightenment exploration and geography.
| Dimensions | 55 × 45 cm |
|---|---|
| Condition | |
| Technique | Copper plate engraving |
| Publish Date | 1724-1726 |
| Published by | Joannes van Braam |
| Orientation | |
| Artist | |
| Era |
Our antique prints are carefully packaged to ensure safe arrival.
Smaller prints are shipped in acid-free, flat protective packaging, while larger works are securely rolled and sent in a sturdy tube to preserve their condition.
Netherlands: €7.50 —
European Union: €15
Outside the EU: On request (contact us for an exact quote)
We offer custom framing for all prints, from classic antique frames to contemporary minimalist styles.
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We discuss frame styles, materials & pricing
The print will be professionally framed and shipped via courier for maximum safety
If you would like your print framed, please contact us, we are happy to advise on styles and options.
Our highest classification. These prints are clean, bright, and exceptionally well-preserved, featuring a strong and crisp image. No notable imperfections.
Prints in this condition show a clean, sharp image. Paper quality or margin size may vary slightly. Minor age-related characteristics, such as small wormholes, light toning, or tiny separations may be present depending on the print date.
No major imperfections. Any minor flaws or historical repairs are fully noted in the product description. Overall a well-preserved and collectible piece.
These prints show noticeable imperfections such as foxing, weaker image strength, or longer separations, but remain collectible. All visible characteristics are clearly described.
