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The colonial possessions of Britain, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal and Denmark are shown on this mid-19th century map of Southeast Asia. There are inset maps of Penang Island and Singapore, and text describing the region’s colonial history.

Brief notes printed on this 19th century map of Southeast Asia provide details about each region, including: numbers and ethnicity of the population, local or colonial rulers, crops and products, geography (corals, forests, volcanos, earthquakes).

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.

Text on this map notes that Sumatra is divided into two equal parts by the Equator, so that the days and nights are always the same length. It also notes that Java is ruled by the Dutch, though the Mataram Sultanate in central Java is also mentioned.

This map's cartouche features an illustration of three men bowing before an enthroned ruler. A second image is of a procession where a horned four-armed humanoid creature is being carried on poles by two bearers, while musicians follow behind.

This map is dedicated to William Cowper, whose coat of arms sits atop the cartouche. It features two horses holding a crest with three red martlets (mythical birds used in heraldry). The colourful cartouche also features Asian traders.

This early 18th century map of Asia features a note stating that there are new features on this map not seen on previous maps, and that this is not a mistake. The colourful cartouche features a column of Asian people riding on horses and camels.

The outline of the island of New Guinea is very vague on this early 17th century map of Southeast Asia. The cartouche is decorated with two figures of Asian warriors: one holds a spear, the other a sword. There are also drawings of mermaids.

An early 17th century map by the Flemish/Dutch cartographer Jodocus Hondius showing Asia and part of Europe and Africa. The Latin text on New Guinea translates as ‘Whether it is an island or the southern part of the continent is not yet certain’.

An early 17th century map by the Flemish/Dutch cartographer Jodocus Hondius showing Asia and part of Europe and Africa. The Latin text on New Guinea translates as ‘Whether it is an island or the southern part of the continent is not yet certain’.

A white banner at the right features text that notes that the ‘Insule Molucce’ (Maluku Islands) are famous for their abundance of spices, which are sold across the world. There are also Illustrations of mermaids and sea monsters wrecking a ship.

A red banner at the right features text that notes that the ‘Insule Molucce’ (Maluku Islands) are famous for their abundance of spices, which are sold across the world. There are also Illustrations of mermaids and sea monsters wrecking a ship.