Old Island of Holland

Geographical Coastlines and Maritime Navigation of the Dutch Territory

This antique Renaissance engraving displays a highly accurate regional map of the historical County of Holland and its surrounding areas.
The cartographer captures the complex network of rivers, coastal inlets, and protective dikes that defined the sixteenth-century Dutch lowlands.
A massive, circular compass rose dominates the North Sea expanse on the right, radiating sharp rhumb lines used by mariners for maritime navigation.

Decorative Heraldry and Fine Renaissance Cartographic Details

A grand, highly stylized strapwork cartouche sits on the left margin, framing the long Latin title text beneath a bearded sculptural head.
In the upper corners, imperial coats of arms and regional heraldic crests establish the political territory of the Holy Roman Empire.
Finely etched sailing vessels populate the waterways, while dozens of minuscule town symbols and handwritten labels mark local communities across the landscape.