Johannes Blaeu

Place: Alkmaar

Born: 1596

Death: 1673

Biography:

Johannes Blaeu, also known as Joan Blaeu, was a renowned Dutch cartographer, publisher, and artist born on September 23, 1596, in Alkmaar, Netherlands. He was the son of Willem Janszoon Blaeu, a prominent cartographer and founder of the Blaeu firm. Johannes studied law and attained a doctorate before joining his father's business in Amsterdam.

Early Career and Notable Works

In 1620, Johannes became a doctor of law but joined his father's work, where he was involved in creating maps and atlases. In 1635, they published the Atlas Novus, also known as Theatrum orbis terrarum, sive, Atlas novus, in two volumes. This publication marked a significant milestone in the field of cartography. After his father's death in 1638, Johannes and his brother Cornelius took over the studio. Some notable works by Johannes Blaeu include:

• Le Grand Atlas, or, Cosmographie Blauiane Nova et Accuratissima Totius Terrarum Orbis Tabula, a seminal work in the history of cartography.
• Atlas Maior, published in 1645, which showcased the regions of Andalusia, including the cities of Sevilla and Cordoba.
• Nova et Accvratissima Totius Terrarum Tabula, a map published in 1662.

Legacy and Impact

Johannes Blaeu's work had a profound impact on the field of cartography. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create accurate and beautiful maps. His publications, such as the Atlas Novus and Atlas Maior, are still studied by scholars today. Johannes Blaeu's legacy can be seen in the many museums and institutions that house his work, including the Universiteitsbibliotheek in Leiden, Netherlands. His paintings and maps can also be found on Wikioo.org, a platform that provides access to high-quality digital images of art from around the world. For more information about Johannes Blaeu, visit Wikioo.org or check out his page on Wikipedia. Some of his notable works can be found in the Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar and the National Maritime Museum of Korea.

Conclusion

Johannes Blaeu was a prominent figure in the field of cartography, known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create accurate and beautiful maps. His legacy can be seen in the many institutions that house his work, including museums and online platforms like Wikioo.org. His contributions to the field of cartography continue to inspire scholars and art enthusiasts alike.