Hand-colored engraving by Allain Manesson Mallet, 1683
€150.00
This authentic antique print, measuring 15 cm × 11 cm , created by Allain Manesson Mallet as a fine example of Hand-colored engraving work from the 17th Century (1600s).
Published by Mallet, it is preserved in Very Good condition and displays remarkable period craftsmanship.
1 in stock
This charming hand-colored engraving shows St. Augustine harbor in Florida as it appeared in the late 17th century. It comes from Allain Manesson Mallet’s monumental atlas, Description de l’Univers, published in Paris in 1683.
The engraving depicts the earliest European settlement in North America. It highlights the city view with fortifications, ships in the harbor, and native scenery.
This rare and attractive image combines finely detailed artistry with significant historical importance. It stands out as part of one of the most influential atlases of the era.
Collectors value this work for its beauty and for its unique glimpse into early colonial America. Visit our store located in the heart of Haarlem to discover our entire collection.
Alain Manesson Mallet (1630–1706) was a French cartographer, military engineer, mathematician, and teacher at the court of Louis XIV. Starting his career as a soldier, he rose to the rank of Sergeant-Major in artillery and Inspector of Fortifications. He also served in Portugal before returning to France, where his mathematical expertise earned him a teaching position in Versailles. Mallet is renowned for his major works, especially “Description de L’Univers” (1683), a comprehensive five-volume geographical and astronomical publication blending maps of the ancient and modern world with cultural and scientific information. His engaging style included decorative illustrations, many drawn by himself, reflecting his effort to entertain and educate readers. Collectors value his work for its blend of scientific importance, artistic detail, and historical insight into 17th-century knowledge and exploration. His publications remain significant for the history of cartography and military engineering.
The 17th century greatly advanced mapmaking and printmaking, with copperplate engraving enabling cartographers to create detailed and accurate maps. During the Dutch Golden Age, increased trade and exploration boosted the demand for maps, turning map printing into a major industry. Skilled engravers carved designs into copper plates, applied ink, and pressed paper to produce fine prints. After printing, artisans hand-colored maps to enhance their beauty and clarity. Copperplate printing replaced woodcuts, offering smoother lines and finer details. Renowned mapmakers like Blaeu, Janssonius, and Hondius combined scientific knowledge with artistic skill. This era produced remarkable atlases, such as Joan Blaeu’s Atlas Maior. Maps not only charted geography but reflected political power, trade routes, and scientific discoveries. Printed maps became essential for navigation, colonization, and education. Dutch publishers led Europe’s map market, shaping global cartographic standards. These original maps remain prized for their detail and artistry, influencing future mapmaking and holding high value for collectors and museums today.
| Dimensions | 15 × 11 cm |
|---|---|
| Artist | |
| Condition | |
| Era | |
| Frame | No Frame |
| Orientation | |
| Publish Date | 1683 |
| Published by | Mallet |
| Technique | Hand-colored engraving |
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.
Choose any print from the collection
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.
