Collecting Miniature Antique Maps - Greenland and North American Coast c1683

As I've said before on the blog the size of something does not always properly indicate its true value. Often the case when it comes to so called miniature maps. If you're new to collecting. there are some big advantages to collecting small.  The wonderful thing about these smaller antique maps is its a good place to start if you're not sure about how you want to move forward with starting a collection. Obviously the rare items will demand a higher price however its an area where many new collectors can get a foothold.

A favourite of mine is the work of Alain Mallet a French cartographer and engineer. He started his career as a soldier in the army of Louis XIV, became a Sergeant-Major in the artillery and an Inspector of Fortifications. He also served under the King of Portugal, before returning to France, and his appointment to the court of Louis XIV.

Above: "Groenland" by Alain Manesson Mallet c1683 Greenland, Baffin Bay & Islands, North East Canada, America Coast from Description de L'Univers'. 

His five volume work Description de l'univers was originally published in Paris in 1683 and contained almost 700 small engravings of maps, charts, plans and views. The first volume contained many celestial charts and maps others covered Asia, Africa, Europe, America and the British Isles. A year later in 1684 Johann David Zunner also published an edition with French text.

Alain Mallet is just one cartographer worth considering when it comes to so called miniature antique maps. Good things do come in small sizes. In some cases rare, collectable, small and valuable considering they are over 340 years old!

​You can see more miniature antique maps by Alain Mallet in the World & Hemisphere section on this website HERE