Gerard van Schagen – World Map, 1689

This is Gerard van Schagens 1689 world map, a detailed and allegorical representation of the known world at the time.

What I see:

The central feature is a double-hemisphere map of the world, displaying continents and oceans with remarkable detail for its era. Specifically, North and South America are shown on the left hemisphere, while Europe, Africa, and Asia are on the right. Two polar projections, one for the Arctic and one for the Antarctic, are positioned above and below the main hemispheres, respectively.

Surrounding the map are various allegorical scenes and vignettes.

• Top Left: A dramatic scene depicting warfare and destruction, with figures in armor engaged in battle, fire, and smoke. A central figure, possibly a god or allegorical representation of power, stands elevated, holding a banner.
• Top Center: A celestial and allegorical scene with figures situated in the clouds, possibly representing deities or muses, with astrological symbols and imagery.
• Top Right: Another celestial scene with winged figures and possibly cherubs, suggesting spiritual or divine presence overseeing the world.
• Bottom Left: A pastoral scene depicting agricultural activities, with farmers working the land, livestock, and the bounty of nature associated with earthly prosperity.
• Bottom Center: A scene populated with mythological figures and possibly representing the gods of the sea or navigation, engaged in activities related to maritime life and exploration, with ships visible in the background.
• Bottom Right: More allegorical figures, perhaps representing the elements or spirits of the sea, interacting with marine life and maritime symbols. There is a prominent seashell and possibly a mermaid or merman.

The map itself is intricately detailed with geographical names in Latin, coastlines, rivers, mountains, and indications of oceanic currents or winds. The overall aesthetic is rich and colorful, characteristic of 17th-century cartography.

Subtexts:

• The Known World and Exploration: The map itself is a testament to the expanding geographical knowledge of the late 17th century and the drive for exploration and trade. It aims to present a comprehensive view of the Earth.
• Divine Order and Control: The celestial and allegorical scenes at the top and sides suggest a divine order governing the world. The placement of gods and celestial beings implies that human affairs and the natural world are under their watch and influence.
• The Duality of Human Experience: The juxtaposition of scenes like warfare and destruction with those of pastoral harmony and abundance highlights the dualities of human experience – conflict and peace, chaos and order, hardship and prosperity.
• The Power of Nature and the Elements: The scenes involving mythological figures of the sea and possibly other elements emphasize the forces of nature and their impact on human endeavors, particularly navigation and maritime trade, which were crucial for the economies of the time.
• Prosperity and Empire: The agricultural scenes can be interpreted as representing the earths fertility and the source of wealth and sustenance. In the context of European empires expanding globally, this can also symbolize the benefits derived from colonial territories and the establishment of trade networks.
• Allegory of Navigation and Discovery: The figures associated with the sea and ships likely represent the spirit of adventure, seafaring prowess, and the risks and rewards of oceanic voyages.
• Artistic and Scientific Achievement: The map as a whole serves as a showcase for the artistic skill of the engraver and cartographer, as well as the scientific understanding of geography and astronomy of the period. The decorative elements elevate it from a mere functional object to a work of art.