Rare Old Birdseye Map of Florence by Boisseau, 1648: Cathedral, Baptistery, Medici Palace, Arno River, City Walls
Restored in our London workshop from the original 1648 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored from the original 1648 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
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Gift message & custom finish
If you want to add a gift message, or a finish (jigsaw, aluminium board, etc.) that is not available here, please request it in the "order note" when you check out.
Every order is custom made, so if you need the size adjusted slightly, or printed on an unusual material, just let us know. We've done thousands of custom orders over the years, so there's (almost) nothing we can't manage.
You can also contact us before you order, if you prefer!
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"Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane," crafted by the esteemed Jean Boisseau in 1648, is...
Continue reading"Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane," crafted by the esteemed Jean Boisseau in 1648, is a captivating birdseye view of Florence, Italy. This rare and detailed map provides a panoramic glimpse into the heart of Tuscany during the mid-17th century. Boisseau, a renowned French engraver and mapmaker, has masterfully captured the essence of Florence, highlighting its architectural grandeur and the intricate urban layout that defines this historic city.
The map meticulously showcases significant landmarks that have shaped Florence's identity. The iconic dome of the Cathedral, known as Le dome Eglise, stands prominently, symbolizing the city's architectural prowess. Nearby, the Baptistery (Le Baptistère) and the Grand Duke's Palace (Palais du grand duc) further emphasize Florence's rich cultural heritage. The Medici Palace (Palais de Medicis) and Santa Maria Novella (St. Marie la novelle) are also prominently featured, underscoring the city's importance as a center of art and power during the Renaissance.
Boisseau's map is not just a depiction of buildings; it is a narrative of Florence's vibrant neighborhoods and their historical significance. The clustered buildings represent the bustling urban life, while the detailed city walls and gates, such as Porte de la Croix and Porte de St. George, offer a glimpse into the city's defensive structures. The Arno River (Arne Fleuve) gracefully winds through the city, serving as both a vital waterway and a picturesque element of the landscape, further enhancing the map's visual appeal.
The surrounding hills and green spaces depicted on the map highlight the natural beauty that frames Florence. Gardens and parks within and around the city walls provide a sense of tranquility amidst the urban sprawl. These green spaces, along with the bridges over the Arno River, such as the Ponte Vecchio, are testament to the city's harmonious blend of nature and architecture, making Florence a unique and enchanting destination.
Jean Boisseau's "Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane" is more than just a map; it is a historical document that captures the essence of Florence in the 17th century. The detailed illustrations and the comprehensive legend, which identifies over 30 places of importance, make this map an invaluable resource for historians and enthusiasts alike. Boisseau's work, part of his rare Théâtre des Citez collection, stands as a testament to his skill and the enduring allure of Florence.
Streets and roads on this map
- Porte de la Croix
- Porte de prez
- Porte de St. Fran
- Porte de St. George
- Porte de St. Gallo
- Porte de St. Nicolas
- Porte de St. Pierre Gatinini
- Porte de St. Miniate
- Porte de prez
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Illustrations:
- Detailed depiction of Florence's cityscape.
- Surrounding hills and landscape.
- Landmarks:
- Le dome Eglise (Cathedral)
- Le Baptistère (Baptistery)
- Palais du grand duc (Grand Duke's Palace)
- Palais de Medicis (Medici Palace)
- St. Marie la novelle (Santa Maria Novella)
- St. Croix (Santa Croce)
- St. Michel
- St. Franc (San Francesco)
- La nonciade
- St. Onofrius (San Onofrio)
- Tour les Sainctz (Tower of Saints)
- St. Felix (San Felice)
- Palais de Strozzi (Strozzi Palace)
- Neighbourhoods:
- Various clustered buildings representing different parts of the city.
- Lakes:
- The Arno River (Arne Fleuve)
- Large parks:
- Gardens and green spaces surrounding the city walls.
- Other notable features:
- City walls and gates.
- Bridges over the Arno River.
Historical and design context
- Name of the map: Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane
- Date of creation: 1648
- Mapmaker/Publisher: Jean Boisseau
- Interesting context about the mapmaker: Jean Boisseau was a notable French engraver and mapmaker known for his detailed city views and panoramas.
- Topics and themes:
- City Birds Eye View: The map provides a panoramic, birds-eye view of Florence.
- Architectural landmarks: Key buildings and landmarks are identified and labeled.
- Geographical features: The Arno River and surrounding hills are depicted.
- Countries and regions shown: Florence, Tuscany, Italy
- Design/Style:
- Pictorial map: The map is a pictorial representation, providing a detailed and artistic view of the city.
- Panoramic layout: The map uses a panoramic layout to capture the cityscape.
- Historical significance:
- The map provides a historical snapshot of Florence in the mid-17th century, showcasing its architecture and urban layout.
- It reflects the cartographic and artistic techniques of the period.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
This map is wider than most maps, which would make it a perfect statement piece above a mantelpiece, sofa or desk.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
"Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane," crafted by the esteemed Jean Boisseau in 1648, is a captivating birdseye view of Florence, Italy. This rare and detailed map provides a panoramic glimpse into the heart of Tuscany during the mid-17th century. Boisseau, a renowned French engraver and mapmaker, has masterfully captured the essence of Florence, highlighting its architectural grandeur and the intricate urban layout that defines this historic city.
The map meticulously showcases significant landmarks that have shaped Florence's identity. The iconic dome of the Cathedral, known as Le dome Eglise, stands prominently, symbolizing the city's architectural prowess. Nearby, the Baptistery (Le Baptistère) and the Grand Duke's Palace (Palais du grand duc) further emphasize Florence's rich cultural heritage. The Medici Palace (Palais de Medicis) and Santa Maria Novella (St. Marie la novelle) are also prominently featured, underscoring the city's importance as a center of art and power during the Renaissance.
Boisseau's map is not just a depiction of buildings; it is a narrative of Florence's vibrant neighborhoods and their historical significance. The clustered buildings represent the bustling urban life, while the detailed city walls and gates, such as Porte de la Croix and Porte de St. George, offer a glimpse into the city's defensive structures. The Arno River (Arne Fleuve) gracefully winds through the city, serving as both a vital waterway and a picturesque element of the landscape, further enhancing the map's visual appeal.
The surrounding hills and green spaces depicted on the map highlight the natural beauty that frames Florence. Gardens and parks within and around the city walls provide a sense of tranquility amidst the urban sprawl. These green spaces, along with the bridges over the Arno River, such as the Ponte Vecchio, are testament to the city's harmonious blend of nature and architecture, making Florence a unique and enchanting destination.
Jean Boisseau's "Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane" is more than just a map; it is a historical document that captures the essence of Florence in the 17th century. The detailed illustrations and the comprehensive legend, which identifies over 30 places of importance, make this map an invaluable resource for historians and enthusiasts alike. Boisseau's work, part of his rare Théâtre des Citez collection, stands as a testament to his skill and the enduring allure of Florence.
Streets and roads on this map
- Porte de la Croix
- Porte de prez
- Porte de St. Fran
- Porte de St. George
- Porte de St. Gallo
- Porte de St. Nicolas
- Porte de St. Pierre Gatinini
- Porte de St. Miniate
- Porte de prez
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Illustrations:
- Detailed depiction of Florence's cityscape.
- Surrounding hills and landscape.
- Landmarks:
- Le dome Eglise (Cathedral)
- Le Baptistère (Baptistery)
- Palais du grand duc (Grand Duke's Palace)
- Palais de Medicis (Medici Palace)
- St. Marie la novelle (Santa Maria Novella)
- St. Croix (Santa Croce)
- St. Michel
- St. Franc (San Francesco)
- La nonciade
- St. Onofrius (San Onofrio)
- Tour les Sainctz (Tower of Saints)
- St. Felix (San Felice)
- Palais de Strozzi (Strozzi Palace)
- Neighbourhoods:
- Various clustered buildings representing different parts of the city.
- Lakes:
- The Arno River (Arne Fleuve)
- Large parks:
- Gardens and green spaces surrounding the city walls.
- Other notable features:
- City walls and gates.
- Bridges over the Arno River.
Historical and design context
- Name of the map: Florence La Belle Ville Capitalle De L Estat De Grand Duc de Toscane
- Date of creation: 1648
- Mapmaker/Publisher: Jean Boisseau
- Interesting context about the mapmaker: Jean Boisseau was a notable French engraver and mapmaker known for his detailed city views and panoramas.
- Topics and themes:
- City Birds Eye View: The map provides a panoramic, birds-eye view of Florence.
- Architectural landmarks: Key buildings and landmarks are identified and labeled.
- Geographical features: The Arno River and surrounding hills are depicted.
- Countries and regions shown: Florence, Tuscany, Italy
- Design/Style:
- Pictorial map: The map is a pictorial representation, providing a detailed and artistic view of the city.
- Panoramic layout: The map uses a panoramic layout to capture the cityscape.
- Historical significance:
- The map provides a historical snapshot of Florence in the mid-17th century, showcasing its architecture and urban layout.
- It reflects the cartographic and artistic techniques of the period.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
This map is wider than most maps, which would make it a perfect statement piece above a mantelpiece, sofa or desk.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
If you are not happy with your order for any reason, contact me and I'll get it fixed ASAP, free of charge. Please see my returns and refund policy for more information.
I am very confident you will like your restored map or art print. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and art prints and have over 5,000 real 5-star reviews. My work has been featured in interior design magazines, on the BBC, and on the walls of dozens of 5-star hotels.
I use a unique process to restore maps and artwork that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps and illustrations can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore them. As a result, I guarantee my maps and art prints are a cut above the rest. I stand by my products and will always make sure you're 100% happy with what you receive.
Almost all of my maps and art prints look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.
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