This finely detailed map depicts the Republic of Venice and its mainland dominions, extending to the Alps in the north and the Gulf of Venice in the south. Engraved by Thomas Koning and published in Amsterdam in 1771 by Hans Kasper Arkstée and Hendrick Merkus as part of their Histoire universelle depuis le commencement du monde…, the map beautifully showcases the coastal and lagoon area. Venice and its coastline, including its canals and islands, are emphasized to highlight the city and its port’s importance.
Cartographically, the map draws upon Pierre Van der Aa’s 1704 Seigneurie de Venise, but features a simpler cartouche, reflecting the 18th-century trend toward a more scientific approach by minimizing classical and allegorical elements.
Hans Kasper Arkstée and Hendrick Merkus, 18th-century Amsterdam publishers and booksellers, aimed to provide a comprehensive account of human history with their ambitious 33-volume Histoire universelle…, reflecting the Enlightenment’s interest in historical and geographical knowledge.
