Stockholm Map 1638 Merian Bird's-Eye View Print - Tre Kronor Castle, Gamla Stan, Harbor, Stockholm Archipelago

This decorative bird's-eye view of Stockholm from across the harbor comes from Matthaeus Merian's Neuwe Archontologia Cosmica, published in Frankfurt in 1638. It shows buildings, churches, bridges, ships, docks, the fortified walls of the city and the surrounding area, and the coat of arms of the country and the name of the city float above it, set among clouds. At that time Sweden was becoming one of the leading powers of Europe, and the expansion and construction of the city reflect it. The view is a record of Stockholm before its great growth. The sheet is a fine example of Merian's work and a handsome record of the capital of an emerging great power.

The city is mostly limited to the central island of the Stockholm archipelago, though some houses stand on the surrounding islands and the mainland. The map shows part of the Tre Kronor castle on the left-hand side, a building that, together with much of the Swedish archives, was burned down in 1697. Matthaeus Merian lived from 1593 to 1650 and was born in Basel, trained as an engraver in Zurich, and settled in Frankfurt, where he took over the de Bry publishing house in 1623. His best-known works are detailed town views, valued for their accuracy and artistry.

Anyone who loves old town views, a family with roots in Stockholm, or a reader of the Swedish age of greatness will find a distinctive gift here. TheMapVault's Homann plan from about 1720 shows the city after its reforms, whereas this Merian view shows the walled island town of the seventeenth century. Like every print in the collection, it ships unframed and is available in a full range of sizes, from a compact desk piece to a large-format statement print. It would suit a study, a hall or a library. It will stay a pleasure to look at for many years.