Bidspirit auction | John Speed (1552-1629)

John Speed (1552-1629) - JOHN SPEED (1552-1629) 17TH CENTURY MAP OF ASIA. John Speed (1552-1629) Asia with the Islands adoiyning described, the atire of the people, & Townes of importance, all of them newly augmented by I.S. Ano. Dom: 1626 [sic] Circa 1626 The hand-colored copperplate engraving features eight bird's-eye views of prominent trading hubs and cities, including Damascus, Jerusalem, Aden, Goa, and Macau. The side margins showcase ten costumed figures representing inhabitants across the region, ranging from Syrian and Arabian attire to Chinese, Moscovian, and Tartarian dress. Geographically based on Dutch models from Jodocus Hondius, the map reflects early 17th-century European understanding of the Orient, featuring speculative geography such as Korea shown as a long peninsula, the Great Wall of China, and the mythical Lake Ciamay spawning the major rivers of Southeast Asia. Image measures 15 x 20 with a framed size of 22 x 27 inches. Without proof of exemption, be aware that internet sales tax applies to all Internet transactions and local sales tax may apply to local pick-up transactions. We happily provide seamless in-house packing and shipping services on nearly everything we sell. Until further notice, we cannot offer international shipping in-house. Dimensions Image measures 15 x 20 with a framed size of 22 x 27 inches. Condition Apparently the condition is very good, very clean, intact, no visible stain, damage, repair, punctures or tears. This work has not been examined outside the frame. fine strong color, a light shadow of the text verso is visible in some areas. Provenance The estate of John Adair Jr. (1942-2025), founder and proprietor of Kurofune Antiques in Tokyo (est. 1978), a world-renowned destination for Japanese basketry, prints and furniture featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal.