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One of the Most Celebrated Cartographic Rarities
Leo Belgicus: The Netherlands & Belgium.
KEERE (KAERIUS), P. VAN DEN [Amsterdam, 1617]
Leo Belgicvs/Arrificiosa & Geographica tabula sub Leonis figura a 17 inferioris Germaniae Provincias...
14 3/8 x 17 ¾ inches.
Superb hand color heightened with gold leaf; excellent condition; in fine gold leaf frame with rosettes set in the corner with a French mat.
Among the most dramatically decorative works of early mapmaking is the series of maps showing the Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. These so-called Leo Belgicus maps "are all exceedingly rare, only a few examples surviving and in some cases only a solitary specimen has been located." (Tooley) Kaerius’s version "is one of the most decorative." (Potter)
The Leo Belgicus maps are perhaps the most famous examples of cartography as an expression of national pride. The bold image clearly struck a chord in a nation that was beginning to take a prominent role in the world arena. In fact, the map's popularity paralleled the growth of the commercial might of the Low Countries.
The use of the lion image was in part suggested by the vaguely leonine shape of the areas themselves. In addition, the lion had long figured in the national iconography of Holland and Belgium; most of the coats-of-arms of the countries' 17 provinces feature a lion. Also, the map was a statement of unity, since at the time the 17 provinces comprised a single nation, although under the yoke of Spain. In fact, it is interesting to note how the stance and aspect of lion image grew more ferocious as Dutch resistance to Spanish rule intensified. In the Kaerius image, the lion is already showing claws and fangs; later a sword would be put in his paw.
Kaerius was one of the most skilled map engravers of the early 17th century; his talents were utilized by the English map publisher, John Speed, among others. However, the Leo Belgicus is perhaps his finest work. Its rich ornamentation includes three couples along the bottom in the characteristic dress of the regions of Friesland, Holland, and Belgium.
Tooley, M.C.C.S. No. 7; Potter, Country Life Book Of Antique Maps, p.187 (illustrated); Skelton, Decorative Printed Maps, (illustrated on cover), p.63, pl.41; van der Heijden, Leo Belgicus 4.2. |
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