Translation of 1659 map text on Asia written by Hondius Hondivs

[soleilbelmont]

The map can be enlarged and seen well. Verify Access
Asiae Descriptio Novissima.
Amstelaedami, IOANNES BLAEV Printer

1659.

The text, Nouvelle Description de toute L'Asie, New Description of all of Asia, is from the French on the right side of the map.

I am only posting the end and may add to it, and I welcome others' contributions and improvements.

There are an infinity of islands the length of the Kingdom of China, the eastern side, the sort of which one may well say that they are a world of isles. Two principal among them, namely Korea, whom the inhabitants call Caoli, & Japan, which is far more famous. She is on this side of the equator, & extends until 30 degrees latitude, almost nearly 28. In the east she looks to America, in the west China, in the north Scythia and Tartaria; & in the midst the great sea. But that much will suffice now to present Asia, and for those wanting more there serves the New Atlas, put in light by Guillaume & Jean Blaeu.

AMSTERDAM, the shop of JODOQUE HONDIUS

Name note

 

[Artemisian]

AMSTERDAM, the shop of JODOQUE HONDIUS

As a trained cartographer, I am generally suspicious of the attribution of maps to an individual, such as Hondius Hondius and John Speed. It seems more likely, to me, to refer to either the methodology used (Ion speed?) or the financial backer, as looks possible in this case.

I'm sure it's just a coincidence the hoax hantavirus outbreak was on a cruise ship called MV Hondius!

Thanks for sharing: old maps are always tantalising!