Rare 17th-Century Coloured Engraving of Chios by Olfert Dapper (1636-1689)

This wonderful coloured engraving by Olfert Dapper" is an exact description of the island of Chios. Part of the

Exact description of the islands of the archipelago, and of some others adjacent; the principal ones being Cyprus, Rhodes, Candia, Samos, Chios, Negrepont, Lemnos, Paros, Delos, Patmos.  Amsterdam: George Gallet, 1703 

The first edition was published in Dutch in 1688. Olfert Dapper (1635/6?-1689) was a Dutch physician and scholar who devoted himself to geographical and historical studies which were notable for their fine plates and illustrations, as here, though he never visited the places he described. His other works included Syria and Palestine, Asia Minor and Mesopotamia and the Morea.

This exquisite 17th-century coloured engraving of Chios by the renowned Dutch cartographer and historian Olfert Dapper is a remarkable piece of early European cartographic art. Dapper, famous for his detailed city views and historical narratives, produced this masterpiece between 1636 and 1689. The artwork vividly captures the strategic Aegean island of Chios, an essential hub of commerce and conflict during the Ottoman-Venetian wars. The engraving features intricate details of the island's fortified city, bustling harbors, maritime trade, and a dramatic battle scene, all rendered with expert craftsmanship and historical accuracy.

This piece is an exceptional find for collectors of antique maps, maritime history, and early European cartography. Framed and well-preserved, it offers a glimpse into the geopolitical struggles and rich history of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Key Features:

• Authenticity: Original 17th-century engraving by Olfert Dapper
• Material: High-quality aged paper, hand-coloured engraving
• Dimensions: To be confirmed upon request
• Condition: Excellent for its age; slight signs of aging enhance its authenticity
• Usage: Ideal for antique collectors, museums, or fine art decor

The Story Behind This Treasure:

This rare engraving was discovered in an old maritime estate belonging to a Dutch family whose ancestors were involved in naval trade with the Ottoman Empire. Passed down through generations, it was found tucked away in an antique folio of historic maps, carefully preserved as a testament to the family’s seafaring legacy. The detailed artistry and hand-coloured embellishments suggest it was once part of a distinguished collector’s private archive, likely admired by scholars and navigators of its time.

"Owning this engraving is like holding a piece of history in your hands. It transports you to an era of exploration, conflict, and the grandeur of the Aegean world. May this masterpiece bring inspiration and wonder into your collection."