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''SCOTIA REGNVM'' Amsterdam: Willem Janszoon Blaeu, c. 1635-54. Verso: Latin. (Image: 15 1/8 x 19 5/8'')

Engraved map with original hand-coloring. Reference: Early Maps of Scotland, Volume 1, p 169, Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Some age toning evenly throughout.

This very attractive early 17th century map depicts the Kingdom of Scotland. Topographical features are shown, and major cities, towns, waterways, mountains, forests and islands are located. The inset, upper right, depicts the "Orchades Insulae". The colorful and elaborate title cartouche with coat-of-arms further enhances the map. Above the title is a crowned and belted coat-of-arms emblazoned with the motto of the Order of the Garter "Honi soit qui mal y pense'' (Shame be to him who thinks evil of it).

Blaeu was founder of the leading 17th century Dutch cartographic firm. “The achievements of the firms of Blaeu were remarkable, & the palm for supremacy in map production in any age must be awarded to the Blaeu” (Tooley: Maps & Map-Makers, p. 33).