Old Europa Map Appraisal

Antique Hand-Colored Map of Europa (Europe)

This item is an antique, hand-colored copperplate engraved map titled 'EVROPA' with additional text below, likely indicating the publisher or cartographer and possibly the edition. The map depicts the continent of Europe, showing intricate geographical details including mountain ranges, rivers, and numerous cities and towns. The political boundaries of various regions and countries are delineated and partially highlighted with delicate hand-coloring in hues of green, pink, yellow, and blue. The oceans are rendered in a light blue wash, featuring several sailing ships and sea monsters, typical decorative elements of maps from this period. Distinguishing features include an elaborate cartouche in the upper left corner with the title, framed by decorative elements. Along the top and bottom borders, and the left vertical border, there are highly detailed illustrations of various figures in traditional dress, representing different nations or societal types. Along the left vertical margin, circular vignettes likely depict notable cities or landscapes. The text 'ASIA PARS' appears to the right of Russia and 'AFRICA' along the southern coast, indicating the adjacent continents. The 'MARE ATLANTICUM' and 'OCEANUS OCCIDENTALIS' label the Atlantic Ocean. The overall aesthetic suggests a 17th or early 18th-century origin, a period when mapmaking was both a science and an art form. The paper appears to be laid paper, characteristic of older printed materials, and exhibits some creasing and possibly fold marks, suggesting it may have been bound in an atlas at some point. The colors are generally vibrant for their age, indicating good preservation, though slight toning or minor foxing might be present upon closer inspection. The craftsmanship is high, with fine engraving lines visible in the geographical details and the decorative elements.