This map of Monmouthshire is by Joan Blaeu (1598-1673), arguably the most famous of the Dutch cartographers. During the seventeenth century the Dutch held a dominant position in the production of high quality atlases. Joan Blaeu’s father Willem, established his firm in 1599 as instrument and globe makers. His first topographical atlas appeared in 1630, in one volume and was gradually expanded. By 1640 the ‘Novus Atlas’ by his Joan Blaeu (1598-1673), was in three volumes and contained just four British Isles maps. His chief rival, the Hondius-Jansson atlas contained 18 maps. Both joined a race to make their fourth volumes a complete atlas of the British Isles. Blaeu was first, publishing his magnificent work in 1645, one year before that of Jansson. The work of Blaeu set a standard of design, beauty, and quality that arguably has never been surpassed. He went on to produce some of the highest quality atlases ever published. This map of Westmoreland bears attractive coats of arms and two ornate cartouche. This is an example from the Latin edition of the ‘Atlas Major’ of 1663 with French text. Provenance: Clive A. Burden Ltd.; private English collection. Booth (1977) pp. 44-8; Koeman (1967-70) Bl 56 no. 339; Michael (1985) p. 39; Skelton (1970) 28, this edition not listed.