This copperplate engraved map is presented in a cream-colored mat. It is printed on fine chain-linked, laid paper. The mat measures 26.5" high by 30" wide and the sheet measures 21.75" high by 26.375" wide. There is a central fold, as issued. The lower portion of the fold is reinforced on the verso. There is a small paper defect at the lower edge of the fold and another at the edge of the right corner, as well as a few small tears along the lower edge; none affecting the map and all covered by the mat. There are a few small faint spots in the upper margin and on the left. The map is otherwise in very good condition.
The Visscher family were one of the great art and cartographic printing families of the 17th century. Begun by Claes Jansz Visscher (1587-1652) in Amsterdam and continued by his son Nicolaes (1618-1679), grandson Nicolaes II (1649-1702) and then by his grandson’s widow, Elizabeth until her death in 1726. Nicolas Visscher I was born 1618 in Wenns, Austria. He died 1679 in Linz. After the death of Nicolas II, his widow passed the business to Pieter Schenk. The Visschers were prolific publishers, producing individual maps and also atlases made up to their customers’ specifications. They are commonly regarded as second only to the Blaeu family, among Dutch mapmakers, for the high quality of engraving and decoration, and the geographical accuracy of their many maps.