A magnificent engraved title page featuring Atlas in the background holding the heavens aloft. A terrestrial globe is being studied by Zeus with Neptune in the background. Two female figures, one in a leopard pulled chariot, are similarly studying it. In the background is a harbour scene with numerous vessels offshore. This allegorical title accompanied Pierre van der Aa’s large folio ‘Le Nouveau Theatre du Monde’ published in 1713. It was beautifully engraved by Frans van Bleyswyck (1671-1746).

Pierre van der Aa (1659-1733) was born in Leiden, the son of a stone cutter or sculptor. By the time he was nine years old he was already apprenticed to a bookseller. By 1682 he was the owner of a bookshop and auction. His output is so large that Koeman was sure that there were works yet to be identified. His printed catalogue of 1729 alludes to the fact that works could be made to order. As with many of his published books, the source of the plates contained within is various. Amongst these publications is arguably the biggest atlas ever published, the 66 volume ‘La Galerie Agreable du Monde’. Koeman (1967-70) Aa 6.