Map of the Captaincy of Pernambuco from 1698
This magnificent map of the Brazilian province of Pernambuco was one of 23 maps in this rare account of the Portuguese-Dutch colonial war. Written by João José de Santa Teresa, known to bibliophiles as Santa Teresa, it is considered one of the most sumptuous works of the 17th century on Brazil.
Santa Teresa, a Portuguese Carmelite nun, spent twelve years in the Jesuit missions in South America and then returned to Europe, where she became librarian at the Jesuit College in Rome.
His account was heavily subsidised by Pedro II of Portugal, and some of the leading artists and engravers of the time, including Antonio Horacio Andreas, were commissioned to work on the project. It was published by Giacomo Giovanni Rossi.
The map itself is beautifully drawn and gives an excellent view of the region, with carefully delineated rivers and streams. The locations of villages, missions and forts, including Olinda, are shown.
Even the dangers of navigation along the coast are shown. A large compass rose orients the map with north to the right. The map is elaborately decorated with putti holding the title cartouche, the royal coat of arms and the map key. “Provincia di Pernambuco”, Horatius, Andreas Antonius.
Historical Maps of Brazil – Map of the Captaincy of Pernambuco from 1698
