Cartographer: Robert Morden (c. 1650–1703)
Title: Of Canaan
Year: circa 1680–1700
Technique: Original Copperplate Engraving with hand-coloring
Dimensions: 15.4 x 20 cm
Status: Original book page (Page 338) with English text on verso
About the Artwork:
This exquisite 17th-century miniature map by the celebrated English mapmaker Robert Morden depicts the Land of Canaan. It features the traditional division of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, detailed topography of the Holy Land, and a decorative title header. Published in Morden's famous atlas "Geography Rectified", this Robert Morden map is a prime example of early commercial cartography, blending biblical history with geographical precision.
About the Cartographer:
Robert Morden (c. 1650–1703): A prominent English bookseller, publisher, and mapmaker active in London.
Legacy: One of the first successful commercial map makers, known for his accessible yet detailed county and world maps.
Style: His work is characterized by clean lines and clarity, making his maps highly sought after by collectors of antique cartography.
Verso (Back of the map):
The reverse side features the original 17th-century English typography (Page 337), providing a geographical description titled "Of TURKY in ASIA". It includes fascinating historical accounts of the region, mentions of "Mesopotamia" and "Arabia," and references to the year 1638. This double-sided text adds significant historical value and proves the map's origin from Robert Morden's renowned atlas.