Netherlands Belgium France 1907 Ottoman Atlas Map Empire Mehmed Eşref
Ottoman Map of the Netherlands, Belgium, and France (Felemenk, Belçika ve Fransa Haritası)
From: Umum-i Vilayet-i Şahane’yi Havi Küçük Atlas by Mehmed Eşref - Istanbul, 1325 (1907)
Description:
This original Ottoman map illustrates the regions of the Netherlands (Felemenk), Belgium, and France, published in Umum-i Vilayet-i Şahane’yi Havi Küçük Atlas by Mehmed Eşref in 1907 (1325 AH). The atlas, printed in Istanbul, was one of the most comprehensive Ottoman geographical works of its time, containing 128 maps and a 32-page Ottoman-script text booklet. Each map was printed on thick paper and distributed loosely within the atlas, reflecting the educational and scientific advancements of the late Ottoman period.
This particular map captures Western Europe with a focus on political boundaries and geographic details as understood by Ottoman scholars in the early 20th century. It reflects the empire’s growing interest in European geography and global awareness during an era of modernization and reform.
Key Features:
- Size: 14.5 × 10.3 cm
- Language: Ottoman Turkish (Arabic script)
- Date: 1325 (1907)
- Publisher: Mehmed Eşref, Istanbul
- Source: Umum-i Vilayet-i Şahane’yi Havi Küçük Atlas
- Depicts the regions of the Netherlands, Belgium, and France
- Printed on thick, durable paper
- An important example of late Ottoman cartography and educational material
- Rare surviving example from one of the earliest Ottoman atlases to depict Western Europe