Mercator–Hondius Map of Russia 1634

A rare and historically significant 17th-century map of Russia and surrounding regions, drawn from the Mercator–Hondius atlas tradition and published in the 1634 Dutch edition of Atlas ofte Afbeeldinghe vande gantsche weerldt.

This work represents one of the earliest systematic European attempts to map Muscovy and the vast territories of Eastern Europe and Asia, combining Mercator’s original geographic framework with the refined engraving and commercial reach of Henricus Hondius.

Key Details

Title: Russia cum confinijs
Cartographer: Gerard Mercator (1512–1594)
Publisher: Henricus Hondius (1597–1651)
Date: 1634
Origin: Amsterdam
Medium: Hand-coloured copperplate engraving
Format: Original atlas folio, centre fold as issued
Dimensions: approx. 18.5 × 21 inches (fold-out)

Scholarly Note

This map belongs to the first generation of true atlases, a term introduced by Mercator himself. Unlike many contemporary mapmakers who compiled existing material, Mercator’s approach was rooted in original geographic synthesis. Hondius later republished and expanded these works, bringing them to a wider European audience.

The present map captures a transitional understanding of Eurasia. “Moscovia” is shown as the dominant political identity, while vast eastern regions remain labelled as “Tartaria,” reflecting the limits of Western geographic knowledge at the time. River systems are emphasised, underscoring their importance in early trade and exploration routes.

The inclusion of a regional inset further distinguishes this plate, providing enhanced detail and demonstrating editorial refinement within the atlas.

Condition

Good overall condition for a 17th-century atlas map.
Expected centre fold.
Light age toning and occasional foxing.
Minor signs of handling consistent with a fold-out plate.
Colours remain strong and well preserved.

Please review images carefully.

Provenance

From the 1634 Dutch edition of Mercator’s atlas, published by Henricus Hondius in Amsterdam.
This edition represents one of the earliest and most influential printed atlases of the modern era.

Collector Positioning

This is not a decorative reproduction or later derivative. It is a foundational cartographic work from the Mercator–Hondius lineage, widely regarded as one of the cornerstones of early modern mapmaking.