De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld: A 17th-Century Exploration of the Americas

Published in 1671, De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld (The New and Unknown World) by Arnoldus Montanus offers a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century European perceptions of the Americas and, to a lesser extent, Australia. This work, a blend of history, religion, cartography, and ethnography, aimed to describe the exotic world to a European audience. It remains a significant artifact for understanding the era’s geographical knowledge and cultural biases.

Origins and Authorship

Arnoldus Montanus authored De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld, which was first published in Amsterdam by Jacob van Meurs. The book was subsequently translated into English by John Ogilby in 1671 and into German by Philipp von Zesen in 1673. Notably, the German edition incorrectly attributed authorship to Olfert Dapper. Wikipedia

Content and Scope

The full title of the Dutch edition reveals the book’s ambition: De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld: of Beschryving van America en ’t Zuid-Land: vervaetende d’oorsprong der Americaenen en Zuidlanders, gedenkwaerdige togten derwaerds…/, verciert met afbeeldsels na ’t leven in America gemaekt, en beschreeven door Arnoldus Montanus. Despite suggesting coverage of both America and “’t Zuid-Land” (Australia), the book dedicates only one chapter to Australia (Book III, Chapter 11). The vast majority of the content focuses on descriptions of North and South America.

Illustrations and Maps

De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld is richly illustrated with engravings depicting cityscapes, animals, and indigenous peoples. It also includes maps and portraits, making it a valuable visual record of the 17th century. Christie’s

Significance for Collectors

The book is highly sought after by collectors of Americana, particularly for containing one of the earliest known views of New York, then known as Novum Amsterodamum, on page 124. Another notable engraving on page 213 depicts the crowning of Sir Francis Drake by California Native Americans. Christie’s

Availability

Digital versions of De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weereld are available online through resources like Internet Archive and HathiTrust, allowing modern audiences to explore this historical work.