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The Holy Land
Decorative Map of the Holy Land, Wanderings of Moses by Pieter Mortier, ca. 1700
Anno Domini MDCC1700
€340
$385 · £290
Original print, not a reproduction
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- Date
- 1700
- Sheet size
- 17.7 × 20.5 in (45 × 52 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Good condition. Original central fold as issued. Light toning and faint margin wear, with small handling marks consistent with age. Strong dark impression with excellent detail. Please review the images carefully.
- Faith
- Christianity, Judaism
- Collection
- The Holy Land
- Era
- 1700 to 1799, Mortier, Picart and the illustrated Bible
- Stock no.
- f_46663752
Decorative Map of the Holy Land, Wanderings of Moses by Pieter Mortier, ca. 1700
Antique decorative map of the Holy Land depicting the Exodus of Moses and the Children of Israel from Egypt to the Promised Land. Engraved and published in Amsterdam by Pieter Mortier (1661 to 1711), circa 1700.
The map traces the Israelites’ journey from Rameses, across the Red Sea, and through the wilderness towards Canaan. Notable biblical episodes are shown, including the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, with Pharaoh’s army swallowed by the waters, the arrival at Mount Sinai in the eighth year, and the scene of idolatry worship. The wandering continues across the wilderness, with encampments marking each year, until year 33 at Kadesh, and finally to the Jordan River in year 43, near the Promised Land.
The engraving is richly illustrated with biblical vignettes: Moses at Sinai, encampments of the Israelites, and dramatic scenes of deliverance and worship. The large decorative cartouche in the upper right features figures in classical dress, reinforcing the biblical theme, and is characteristic of Mortier’s baroque cartographic style. The Mediterranean coastline, Egypt, and the Dead Sea are clearly depicted, blending geography with sacred narrative.
This map was published in Histoire du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament, one of the grand illustrated biblical histories of the early 18th century. Pieter Mortier, an influential Amsterdam publisher, held a privilege from 1690 to distribute French works in the Netherlands. His editions are prized for their fine copper engravings, combining scholarly content with elaborate decoration.
This map stands as both a work of art and a devotional piece, appealing to collectors of early biblical cartography, Dutch engraving, and sacred history.
Condition report:
Good condition. Original central fold as issued. Light toning and faint margin wear, with small handling marks consistent with age. Strong dark impression with excellent detail. Please review the images carefully.
Framing tips:
An ivory or parchment-style mount will complement the biblical theme, while a dark walnut or ebonized frame enhances the engraving’s contrast. A gilt frame with inner line would highlight the baroque cartouche and give a museum-quality presentation.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, ca. 1700
