Japan - Japan, Hokkaido, and Korea; Johannes Janssonius - Nova et accurata Iaponiae Terrae Esonis ac insularum adjacentium - 1661-1680

Ancient map of Japan – Johannes Janssonius

Interesting antique geographic map depicting Japan, Hokkaido, historically indicated as Terra Esonis, and the surrounding islands, with references to regions near Korea.

The map bears the Latin title Nova et Acurata Iaponiae Terra Esonis ac Insularum Adjacentium and the editorial inscription Apud Ioannem Ianssonium, referring to Johannes Janssonius (1588–1664), renowned Dutch cartographer and publisher of the 17th century.

The work documents European representation of East Asia at a time when geographic knowledge of Japan and the surrounding regions was still evolving. It is an object of interest for antique cartography collectors, enthusiasts of Japanese history, and scholars of 17th-century geographic publications.

Dating and provenance

The map was acquired at Historia Auktionshaus, Berlin, as part of auction 181, lot 7103.

The auction house indicated a dating of 1665. This date is reported as a provenance catalog reference; the edition and exact printing date have not been independently verified.

Characteristics
Cartographer indicated: Johannes Janssonius (1588–1664)
Original title: Nova et Accurata Iaponiae Terra Esonis ac Insularum Adjacentium
Geographic area: Japan, Hokkaido and surrounding islands
Period: 17th century
Date indicated by the auction house: 1665
Technique: copper engraving
Dimensions: 60x49 cm

Condition and peculiarities
The map shows a patina consistent with age, with browning and small stains visible.
There is a small tear at the top along the central fold, visible in the photographs. The back bears typographic text in French printed directly on the sheet, a feature compatible with a map from a geographic publication or an atlas.
On the front there is also a separate attachment depicting two colored putti, glued to the surface. Its attribution to the original print has not been verified and it is therefore described as an added element.
It is advisable to carefully examine all photographs, which document the condition and peculiarities of the specimen.
European historical cartography dedicated to Japan, offered with stated provenance and with the conditions described transparently.

An interesting testimony of European historical cartography, with provenance from an identified auction house, suitable for a collection of antique maps or an exhibition dedicated to the history of Japan and East Asia.

Tracked UPS shipping in a protective tube.