Norway - Halden (Fredrikshald), Iddefjord, Fredriksten Fortress; Dahlbergh / Pufendorf (1696) - Siege of Halden (Norway) - 1681-1700

Splendid and rare original historical map printed at the end of the seventeenth century, depicting the topographic plan and the military fortifications of the city of Halden (historically known as Fredrikshald) in Norway, on the occasion of the Swedish siege that took place between January and February 1660. The map details the disposition of the troops, the ships in the Iddefjord, and the defensive positions on the surrounding hills. The original title in the left cartouche reads: “Delineatio Oppidi Halldae in Norwegia ab Excell. Dn. Campi Marescallo Comite Laurentio Kagge d. 21 Ianuar. 1660 obsidione cinctae, sed 23. Febr. eadem liberatae.” The right cartouche contains a detailed descriptive legend with the key points of the military event. The work is based on the meticulous surveys and on-site drawings made by the famous count, Swedish military engineer and cartographer Erik Dahlbergh (1625 - 1703). The sheet comes from the renowned historical treatise by Samuel von Pufendorf entitled “De rebus a Carolo Gustavo Sueciae rege gestis commentariorum libri septem,” published in Nuremberg (Sumptibus Christophori Riegelij) between 1696 and 1697. The technique used is a refined copperplate engraving with burin and aquatint on contemporary laid paper. In terms of conservation, the sheet is in generally excellent condition, with a clear and fresh inking. It shows the natural central editorial crease due to its original insertion in the volume. A piece of notable collectible interest and great documentary value for Scandinavian military history. Dimensions 35 x 42 cm. Will be shipped by courier.