Title: Regni Japoniae Nova Mappa Geographica, ex indigenarum observationibus delineata ab Engelberto Kaempfero...
Cartographer: George Matthaus Seutter (1678-1757).
Copper plate engraving, c.1740.
Published by Matthaeus Seutter, Augsburg.
Image size 19 x 21 7/8" (48.1 x 55.6 cm)

This highly decorative map of Japan was based on Englebert Kaempfer's travels in the late 17th century. In the upper left corner is a large figurative and allegoric title cartouche with scenes relating to the exploration of Japan. The lower right is ornated with Japanese arms relating to the kingdom of Japan.

This map was engraved by Tobias Conrad Lotter. One of the great 18th century German cartographic families was the Seutters. George Mattaus Seutter the elder was an apprentice to Johann B. Homann, (another great German cartographer whose style was a major influence), in the late 17th century. He left Homann and settled in Augsburg where he set up his own shop. Later joined by his son, Albrecht, who continued the firm in partnership with Tobias C. Lotter upon his father's death.

Condition: Good condition save for small area of paper loss in the left margin, 1/4" outside of neat line. Unusually nice original hand coloring.