Search

A map of a small island chain off the west coast of the island of Gilolo (modern Halmahera in the Maluku Islands of Indonesia). The military forts and ships were used by the European colonial powers during conflicts over the area’s spice trade.

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.

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.

An early 18th century map of the Indian Ocean, illustrated with a drawing of Asian merchants riding an elephant and using a camel to transport their goods. Other men use bows and arrows to hunt ostriches. Ships are also shown sailing on the ocean.

This colourful map of Asia has an elaborate cartouche decorated with Asian merchants and their goods, including a censer (incense burner), jewels and fruits. They are surrounded by Asian animals, a man riding a camel, and two Japanese samurai.

This colourful map of Asia has an elaborate cartouche decorated with Asian merchants and their goods, including a censer (incense burner), jewels and fruits. They are surrounded by Asian animals, a man riding a camel, and two Japanese samurai.