Search

This map shows the Dutch colonial possessions in the East Indies in the mid-19th century. The text provides great detail about the people, religion, crops, animals, geography and administration of the Dutch East Indies.

Some regions on this map of Southeast have a descriptive label: New Guinea is described as unknown to Europeans; Borneo was abandoned by Europeans due to the ‘unmanageability’ of the inhabitants; the Philippines were discovered by Spain in 1565.

Some regions on this map of Southeast have a descriptive label: New Guinea is described as unknown to Europeans; Borneo was abandoned by Europeans due to the ‘unmanageability’ of the inhabitants; the Philippines were discovered by Spain in 1565.

Some regions on this map of Southeast have a descriptive label: Sumatra is described as having mines of gold, silver, iron, and sulphur; and elephants, tigers, rhinoceroses, dragons and crocodiles. Gilolo has rice, sago and turtles. Ambon has nutmeg.

Some regions on this map of Southeast have a descriptive label: Sumatra is described as having mines of gold, silver, iron, and sulphur; and elephants, tigers, rhinoceroses, dragons and crocodiles. Gilolo has rice, sago and turtles. Ambon has nutmeg.

A map of Java with mountains, jungles, animals and crops. Bathymetry (sea depth) is marked, including on an inset map of Batavia harbour. Illustrations include Batavia Castle, and a lion—representing Belgium—receiving tribute and enslaving locals.

A map of west Java with mountains, jungles, animals and crops. Details include sea depth, an inset map of Batavia harbour, and an illustration of a lion—representing Belgium—receiving tribute and enslaving locals. A similar map of east Java was made.

A map of eastern Java with mountains, jungles, animals and crops. Bathymetry (sea depth) is marked, and there is a painting of Batavia harbour and castle. A similar map depicting western Java was also produced, as were maps featuring both parts.

A map of west Java with mountains, jungles, animals and crops. Details include sea depth, an inset map of Batavia harbour, and an illustration of a lion—representing Belgium—receiving tribute and enslaving locals. A similar map of east Java was made.

A map of eastern Java with mountains, jungles, animals and crops. Bathymetry (sea depth) is marked, and there is a painting of Batavia harbour and castle. A similar map depicting western Java was also produced, as were maps featuring both parts.

A map of Java with mountains, jungles, animals and crops. Bathymetry (sea depth) is marked, including on an inset map of Batavia harbour. Illustrations include Batavia Castle, and a lion—representing Belgium—receiving tribute and enslaving locals.

The cartouche on this early 18th century navigation map features the title in Latin and Dutch, as well as a wealth of detailed drawings illustrating the region’s trade: Asian merchants, their goods and animals, and two female European customers.