Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571–1638) was a leading Dutch cartographer, atlas maker, and publisher during the Dutch Golden Age. Born in Alkmaar, he studied astronomy and cartography under the famed Tycho Brahe in Copenhagen before returning to the Netherlands. In 1599, he founded his own map publishing firm in Amsterdam, producing highly detailed maps, globes, and sea charts. Blaeu’s early works included a globe (1599), maps of Europe, and a world map (1604–1608). He published influential pilot guides for navigation such as Het licht der Zee-vaert (1609) and Zeespiegel (1623). In 1633, Blaeu was appointed official cartographer of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the Dutch West India Company, cementing his prestigious position. His firm became one of the most important in Europe, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and scientific accuracy throughout the 17th century. Blaeu’s legacy continued through his son Johannes Blaeu, who published the famous Atlas Maior.
