Meaco - Châtelain c. 1705

Title: Vue et Description de la Ville de Meaco Capitale du Japon avec d’autres Particularitez du Pays
Cartographer/Publisher: Henri Abraham Châtelain
Published: Amsterdam, c. 1705–1720
Technique: Copperplate engraving with professional hand-coloring

Description: This expansive and decorative plate offers a rich visual narrative of Kyoto (Meaco) and the cultural landscape of Japan during the Edo period. The top panorama provides a rare 18th-century European perspective of the imperial capital, emphasizing its scenic beauty and architectural grandeur.

The sheet is particularly prized for its detailed vignettes and informative French text panels. Key illustrations include:

• The City of Sakai (Saccai): Depicted as a vital maritime hub.

• The Fan-Shaped Island of Deshima: A bird's-eye view of the Dutch East India Company’s (VOC) restricted trading post in Nagasaki harbour.

• Cultural Scenes: Detailed depictions of a Japanese wedding ceremony and a grand temple, alongside a sobering illustration of the martyrdom of Christians.

This work is a hallmark of the Châtelain style—combining high-art engraving with encyclopedic information, providing the Western world with its primary understanding of Japan for generations.

• Authenticity: Original 18th-century copperplate engraving.

• Historical Significance: Documenting the unique Dutch-Japanese "Nanban" trade relationship.

• Dimensions: Large folio format.