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Belgium/ Netherlands. STRADA, F. [Leiden: Jacques Marcu, 1643] Novus XVII. Inferioris German=nieae Provin=ciarum. 7 x 5/14 inches; 18 x 13 cm. Rich hand color with gold highlighting; excellent condition. “Leo Belgicus” maps depicting Belgium and the Netherlands in the shape of a lion became a powerful national symbol of the Lowland countries in their struggle against Spanish domination. In fact, this example served as the frontispiece of Strada’s book on the 80-year war between the Low Countries and Spain. These maps have also long been one of the most desirable cartographic curiosities for map collectors. The use of the lion image was in part suggested by the vaguely leonine shape of the areas themselves. In addition, the lion had long figured in the national iconography of Holland and Belgium; most of the coats-of-arms of the countries' 17 provinces feature a lion. Also, the map was a statement of unity, since at the time the 17 provinces comprised a single nation, although under the yoke of Spain. In fact, it is interesting to note how the stance and aspect of lion image grew more ferocious as Dutch resistance to Spanish rule intensified. Here, the lion is already showing claws and fangs; later a sword would be put in his paw. The lion remains today a potent image in Dutch iconography including for the Dutch national football team’s logo and in corporate branding. Leo Belgicus - An illustrated and annotated carto-bibliography (2006) by H.A.M. van der Heijden, no. 12.1.
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