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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.

This elaborately illustrated map of Asia is decorated with images of angels and cherubs, various figures dressed in colourful robes, wild animals, a procession including elephants and camels, and a double hemisphere world map.

Notes on this map describe European colonial territories and trade with Asia, though this is concentrated around India, and mostly has not yet reached further east to ‘India extra Gangem [India beyond the Ganges]’ as Southeast Asia is labelled.

This map's cartouche features an illustration of three men bowing before a ruler on a throne. There is also what was probably meant to be a lion, though the poor likeness suggests it was based on written descriptions rather than real life experience.

This map's cartouche features an illustration of three men bowing before a ruler on a throne. There is also what was probably meant to be a lion, though the poor likeness suggests it was based on written descriptions rather than real life experience.

This map's cartouche features an illustration of three men bowing before a ruler on a throne. There is also what was probably meant to be a lion, though the poor likeness suggests it was based on written descriptions rather than real life experience.

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 mountains and forests of early 18th century Java are beautifully illustrated here by the Dutch cartographer Henry Abraham Chatelain (1648-1743). Details include cities, fields of crops, animals and people. An inset map shows the port of Batavia.