1719 St. Thomas Virgin Islands map van Keulen Poster

Fine reproduction of the excellent antique, historical and scarce Caribbean map by Gerard van Keulen in 1719. Dutchman van Keulen (1678-1727) was an excellent engraver and well versed in mathematics and navigation. Van Keulen includes three beautiful and detailed maps. The main map shows the islands of St. Thomas and Water Island (at that time Estate Orkanhullet / Hassel Island was not an island) in great detail, noting the topography, harbours, fortifications, plantations, soundings and shoals. At the right are two large and detailed harbour charts. In the upper right is the principle harbour of St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie / Amalia (formerly known as Thapus) with Fort Christian / Christiansfort prominently displayed. In the lower right is Coral Bay or Cruz Bay (it appears to be Cruz Bay because of the fortification shown) on the island of Saint John / St. Jan. The map is beautifully engraved and embellished with rhumb lines, sailing ships and compass roses. A cartouche crowning the distance scales dedicates the map to Erik Bredal, governor of the Danish West India Company. Title and markings: Nieuwe en Aldereerste Afteekening van´t Eyland St. Thomas. Met alle desselfs Havenen, Anker Plaatse en geleegent heden, is geleegen beoosten I. Porto Rico in West indie.