Kaart van het eiland Java, 1596 1646

This 17th century map of the island of Java, created by an anonymous artist, is a detailed depiction of the island's coastline and surrounding waters, with its numerous inlets and bays. The map features intricate calligraphy, showcasing the Dutch influence of the time. It was created in 1646, illustrating the importance of Java to Dutch colonization in the 17th century. This detailed map, measuring 145 mm in height and 220 mm in width, is now housed in the Rijksmuseum. The map's title, "Kaart van het eiland Java, 1596," refers to the date 1596, which may indicate that it was based on an older map or that it was compiled using information from that year. "Java Major" indicates the prominence of the island in the region. The map's intricate details, including the depiction of a ship sailing across the Java Sea, provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Dutch East India Company's maritime ambitions.