Africæ nova descriptio (1690) by Willem Janszoon Blaeu. Custom Print on a 100% Airlume Combed and Ring-Spun Cotton Unisex Crewneck T-shirt

Willem Janszoon Blaeu's "Africæ nova descriptio" (1690) stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Dutch Golden Age of cartography. Blaeu, a revered figure in the world of mapmaking, was born in 1571 in Alkmaar, Netherlands. He was not only an artist but also a scientist, apprenticing under the famed astronomer Tycho Brahe. His maps are celebrated for their precision, artistry, and the seamless blend of scientific rigor with aesthetic beauty.

"Africæ nova descriptio" exemplifies Blaeu's cartographic prowess and his philosophical approach to mapmaking, which combined empirical observation with artistic embellishment. The map is a prime example of the Baroque style in cartography, where elaborate decorative elements such as sea monsters, ships, and ornate cartouches frame the geographical content. This work is not merely a tool for navigation but a work of art that reflects the 17th-century European worldview and the age of exploration.

The map's genre is cartographic art, and its subject matter is the African continent, depicted with remarkable detail and embellished with rich iconography. Blaeu employed techniques such as copperplate engraving and hand-coloring to achieve a vibrant and detailed representation. The significance of this piece lies in its historical value, offering insights into the geographical knowledge and colonial aspirations of the time. The original "Africæ nova descriptio" is currently held in esteemed collections, including the British Library, where it continues to be a vital resource for historians and art scholars alike.
Artist Name: Willem Janszoon Blaeu

Artwork Name: Africæ nova descriptio

Artwork Date: 1690

Artist Nationality: Dutch

Artistic Style or Movement: Baroque Cartography

Genre: Map

Period: 17th Century

Medium: Engraving on paper

Technique: Hand-colored engraving

Cultural and Geographic Context: European exploration and colonialism

Thematic or Conceptual Context: Representation of Africa

Artist's Intent and Context: To provide a detailed and decorative map of Africa for European audiences

Formal Elements and Composition: Ornate borders

detailed coastlines

and cartouches with allegorical figures.

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