Insula Candia Ejusque Fortificatio: De Wit 1680

Image] Product ID: 233055 This exquisite antique hand-colored map was published by Frederik de Wit in 1680 and depicts the island of Crete in the eastern Mediterranean. Includes inset maps of the island's major fortifications.  Frederik de Wit, born in Gouda in c.1630, was one of the most famous cartographers of the second half of the 17th century. De Wit's maps are known for their geographic accuracy, intricate detail, and elaborate cartouches. After the decline of the Blaeu and Janssonius publishing houses, de Wit became one of the most prominent and successful map engravers and publishers in Amsterdam. He acquired many of their printing plates, which he used to produce his own maps and atlases. De Wit was an innovator in the field of commercial cartography. He was the first to produce a concise reference atlas, which was a huge success. His cartographic production helped to bridge the gap between the early Netherlands period in cartography (circa 1550-1675) and the later years of Dutch commercial cartography, as well as European atlas production in the 18th century.