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Regni Bohemiae (Bohemia, Czech Republic)
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This map of the Czech Republic (Bohemia), appeared in Homann’s Atlas Scholasticus. The title page of the atlas is labeled “Atlas Minor XXVI. Selectarum Tabularum Geographicum Homanni Secundum Methodum Huberni aliorumque recentorium geographorum dispositus et recognitus” – which translates as a selection of 26 geographic maps by Homann, arranged and revised according to the method of Hübner and other recent geographers. This scarce atlas, referred to as a Kleiner (meaning small/minor) atlas, included 26 selected maps by Homann, guided by Johann Hubner. This atlas also included a copper engraved, hand-colored title page as frontispiece from the Atlas Novus Terrarum Orbis Imperia by M. Rössler. Based on research, this atlas was most likely compiled between 1720 – 1737.
This map is loosely translated, “The Kingdom of Bohemia, with the Duchies of Silesia and Lusatia” is an early 18th-century map that illustrates the Kingdom of Bohemia and its associated territories, including the historical regions of Silesia and Lusatia. The map reflects the political and geographic divisions within the Holy Roman Empire during this period, highlighting major towns, fortresses, rivers, and roads. Bohemia, the heartland of the Habsburg monarchy, is depicted in detail, with Silesia to the northeast and Lusatia to the north and northwest, showing both territorial boundaries and the network of settlements. The map features finely engraved decorative elements, including a cartouche that may contain the Bohemian coat of arms or allegorical imagery, emphasizing the importance and prestige of these lands. Homann’s work not only served as a practical geographic reference for scholars, merchants, and officials but also as a representation of the historical and political landscape of Central Europe. Today, it is valued both for its precise engraving and as a visual document of early 18th-century Bohemian territories.
Johann Baptist Homann (1663-1724) was a mapmaker who founded the famous Homann publishing company. He lived his entire life in Bavaria, particularly in Nuremberg. Initially, Johann trained to become a priest before converting to Protestantism and working as a notary. In 1702, Johann founded a publishing house that specialized in engravings. The firm flourished, becoming the leading map publisher in Germany and an important entity in the European map market. In 1715, Johann was named Imperial Geographer to the Holy Roman Empire by Charles VI and made a member of the Prussian Academy of Sciences. Most importantly for his business, his reputation and contacts gained him imperial printing privileges which protected his publications and recommended him to customers. That privilege was noted on his maps as “Cum Priviligio.” Johann is best known for this Grosser Atlas ueber die ganze Welt, or the Grand Atlas of the World, published in 1716. After Johann died in 1724, the map plates and management of the company passed to his son, Johann Christoph (1703-1730). In Johann Christoph’s will, he stipulated that the company would be inherited by his two head managers – and that it would publish only under the name “Homann Heirs.” The firm continued in business until 1848.
Condition: Very Good
Medium: Copper Engraving
Map Maker: Johann Baptist Homann
Coloring: Original Hand Color
Year: ca. 1720
In stock
