A Beautifully Engraved Map of a Renowned Sea Power

Portugal.

VISSCHER, N.

[Amsterdam, c. 1680]

Portugalliae et Algarbiae Regna . .

18 x 21 3/4 inches. Fine original color; reinforced bottom centerfold, very good.

An attractive example of this classic, Dutch map of Portugal. The cartouche displays the Portuguese arms surrounded by putti.  Over the scales a titan reclines upon a plinth, bearing a stalk of corn, a seemingly unliklely iconic reference to Portugal’s influence at sea. As it happens, Maize -- native to the New World but introduced wherever Portugal sailed – became known as trigo de Portugal, or “Portuguese wheat.”

            The map is also decorated with many ships, a cluster of which are shown locked in battle.

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