Joan Blaeu (1599 – 1673) transformed mapmaking into an art form while running the 17th century’s largest printing press, and was also the Dutch East India Company’s principal cartographer. After the death of Jodocus Hondius II, Blaeu replaced him as Europe’s most renowned mapmaker by printing an extraordinarily beautiful world atlas, Theatrum Orbis Terrarum or Atlas Major. Primarily used for display by wealthy clients, it was the 17th century’s most expensive book, containing over 3,000 text pages and about 600 maps. The largest output of Blaeu’s printing press was 1 million impressions from 1,000 copper plates within four years.

The Giclee printing process delivers a fine stream of ink resulting in vivid, pure color and exceptional detail that is suitable for museum or gallery display. This art print is produced on a heavy 310 gsm, acid-free and watercolor textured paper.