Indian Ocean (N-31)

Details and context of the original map

Brief description of the map:

We present to you a map of the Indian Ocean from 1665, the work of the French cartographer Pierre Duval. This map, known as the “Carte des Indes Orientales”, was published in Paris and provides a detailed representation of the area from the Cape of Good Hope to Japan, including Australia, Indonesia, India and East Africa.

Year of original:

1665

Original author:

Pierre Duval (1619–1683), prominent French cartographer and geographer, nephew of the famous cartographer Nicolas Sanson.

Place of issue:

Paris, France.

Technique:

Copperplate with colors added by hand, which allows a precise and detailed representation of geographical elements.

Content:

The map shows the Indian Ocean with an emphasis on coasts and islands, including details of the coasts of Africa, Arabia, India, Southeast Asia and Australia. The discoveries of the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, including Tasmania and the coast of Australia, are particularly highlighted.

Historical context:

In the middle of the 17th century, European explorers intensively explored the southern and eastern parts of the world. Duval’s map reflects the geographical knowledge and discoveries of the time, providing insight into the territorial layout of the region during this period. The map was part of Duval’s atlas “Cartes de Geographie les Plus Nouvelles”, published in 1665. year.

Importance and value:

This map is an important historical document that combines precise geographical information with artistic representation. Duval’s maps are prized for their accuracy and aesthetic value, and the originals are now rare and highly prized by collectors and historians. Replicas of such maps serve as valuable educational materials and decorative elements that evoke the historical spirit of the 17th century.