181. Ottens, R(einer) – Ottens, J(oshua): Nova Transilvaniae Principatus Tabula

... Novissima descriptia editia Per R. & I. Ottens 
Amstelodami, c. 1725.
Rare, copper-engraved map of Transylvania. The printing plate was originally created by Cornelis Danckerts (III) around 1690; it was later purchased by the Ottens brothers, who, after modifying the colophon, republished it as part of their own atlas. The map extends from Hungary’s eastern border to the watershed of the Olt River, featuring detailed topographical and hydrographic depictions that highlight the region’s strategic importance. The map is particularly noteworthy for its depiction of the region’s ethnic and religious diversity: numerous towns are listed under multiple names, with their linguistic origins indicated. The Dutch-language text in the lower left cartouche describes Transylvania as divided into five nations – Hungarians, Saxons, Székelys, Moldavians, and Vlachs – and highlights its mineral resources, including gold, silver, and copper. The large, architecturally styled title cartouche in the lower right corner, adorned with elegant drapery along with the meticulously engraved details, exemplify the high standard of Dutch cartographic art of the period. The map reflects the political conditions following the Peace of Karlowitz, when Transylvania became part of the Habsburg Empire and, as a border region, held significant geopolitical importance.
Dimensions: 495 × 590 (545 × 640) mm. Fine, clear copy.
Szántai: Danckerts 6b.
 
Starting price: 80 000 Ft