Ellas, Seu Graecia Universa

Cartographer / Artist: Johann Laurenberg and Frederik de Wit

Date Created: c. 1660

Medium: Hand-colored copperplate engraving

Physical Dimensions: 20.5 × 16.9 inches

Geographic Scope: Greece and the Aegean Archipelago

Archive Catalog ID: fp5-img-1943

Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive

Collection: Greece

This magnificent 17th-century map depicts Ancient Greece, the Aegean Archipelago, Crete, and the western coast of Asia Minor. Authored by the German mathematician and historian Johann Laurenberg and published in Amsterdam by Frederik de Wit, the map delineates classical regions including Macedonia, Thessaly, Epirus, Boeotia, and the Peloponnese, densely filled with Latinized ancient place names. The map serves as a historical reconstruction of the Greek world during classical antiquity, blending geographical precision with humanistic scholarship. In the lower-left corner, an elaborate allegorical cartouche features the goddess Athena (Minerva) clad in armor, holding a shield featuring Medusa and accompanied by her owl, books, and celestial instruments. In the lower-right, a secondary cartouche depicts classical figures flanking distance scales in Italian and German miles. Published during the zenith of Dutch cartography, this work exemplifies the period's synthesis of classical history and decorative art.

Condition: Light age toning and minor margin creasing consistent with age.. Original central fold visible with faint toning along the spine.. Attractive hand coloring with distinct wash highlights on regional borders.

Back to Greece
Ellas, Seu Graecia Universa
100%
Scroll to inspect high resolution
Greecec. 1660

Ellas, Seu Graecia Universa

By Johann Laurenberg and Frederik de Wit

Archival Overview & Authenticated Facts

Authentic period c. 1660 Hand-colored copperplate engraving by Johann Laurenberg and Frederik de Wit documenting Greece and the Aegean Archipelago. Measures 20.5 × 16.9 inches. Verified original holding from the Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive.

Acquisition Status$130
Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive • 100% Guaranteed Authentic Original

Physical Specifications & Details

Medium & Technique
Hand-colored copperplate engraving
Sheet / Plate Size
20.5 × 16.9 inches
Date / Era
c. 1660
Geographic Scope
Greece and the Aegean Archipelago
Archive Catalog ID
fp5-img-1943
Provenance
The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Preservation & Condition Report
  • Light age toning and minor margin creasing consistent with age.
  • Original central fold visible with faint toning along the spine.
  • Attractive hand coloring with distinct wash highlights on regional borders.

Historical Context & Archival Analysis

This magnificent 17th-century map depicts Ancient Greece, the Aegean Archipelago, Crete, and the western coast of Asia Minor. Authored by the German mathematician and historian Johann Laurenberg and published in Amsterdam by Frederik de Wit, the map delineates classical regions including Macedonia, Thessaly, Epirus, Boeotia, and the Peloponnese, densely filled with Latinized ancient place names. The map serves as a historical reconstruction of the Greek world during classical antiquity, blending geographical precision with humanistic scholarship. In the lower-left corner, an elaborate allegorical cartouche features the goddess Athena (Minerva) clad in armor, holding a shield featuring Medusa and accompanied by her owl, books, and celestial instruments. In the lower-right, a secondary cartouche depicts classical figures flanking distance scales in Italian and German miles. Published during the zenith of Dutch cartography, this work exemplifies the period's synthesis of classical history and decorative art.

Related Pieces in Greece

Explore other authenticated historical works from this holding

View All 10 Items
Collector & Acquisition Guide

Frequently Asked Archival Questions

Expert answers on provenance verification, museum-grade conservation, insured delivery, and private acquisitions from the Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive.

Every map, fine print, and photograph offered by Rubini Antique Maps and Prints is an authenticated, 100% original period work produced during its stated publication date or era. We never sell modern reproductions or digital facsimiles. All cataloged items carry verified provenance originating from the historical collection of Dr. Joseph R. Rubini, backed by complete historical attribution.