English: 1666 Terra Sancta sive Promissionis, olim Palestina recens delineate, et in lucem edita pr Anno 1659er Nicolaum Vissche. Amsterdam.

This map of the Holy Land by Nicolas Visscher set the standard for maps of the Holy Land for quite some time. The compass orients the map to the right (the West), as are oriented many Holy Land maps, in order to present the region in an easy to read horizontal view rather than vertically. Quite a number of sea-going vessels ply the Mediterranean, from smaller local size varieties to larger European frigates. One ship is shown with an enormous whale alongside, an allusion to the Biblical story of Jonah and the whale. Another is loaded with cedar destined for the construction of King Solomon’s Temple, as is attested by the Latin inscription near the ship. Inland we see the territories of each of the tribes of Israel colored and named, all easily identifiable. All known cities, towns and settlements are noted, as are major heavily-traveled routes and caravan trails. An inset at center bottom illustrates the encampment of the Tribes in the wilderness surrounding the Tabernacle, flanked by Moses and Aaron. The elegantly engraved title cartouche is supported by garlands held in place by charming putti. The fishermen emblem of the Visscher firm showing both father and son, is at bottom right decorating the scale cartouche.

•New World Cartographic•