Antique Leather Map

Item Title: Decorative Leather World Map (after a 17th-century engraving)
Medium: Printed map reproduction on treated leather (possibly hand-colored or heat-stamped)
Origin: Brazil, from Atelier Polanaki
Approximate Size: 39” x 29”
Estimated Date of Manufacture: Mid-to-late 20th century (c. 1960s–1990s)
Condition: Good — slight natural wear and curling but intact; visually striking
Estimated Market Value: $60–$125 USD
Recommended Professional Appraisal: Not necessary unless additional provenance or markings are found

Description and Historical Context:

1. Map Design:
The map image is a reproduction of a famous 17th-century double-hemisphere world map, likely based on the work of Willem Blaeu (or his son Joan Blaeu), renowned Dutch cartographers from the Dutch Golden Age. The mention of "Jacobo Altdorffio" on the cartouche refers to Jacobus Hondius or similar contemporary engravers who created richly decorated maps between 1650 and 1680.

2. Material:
The map is printed on leather, possibly with screen printing or pyrographic (burned) embossing. This decorative technique became popular in the mid-20th century, especially in South America, as part of vintage revival or tourist items.

3. Back Inscription (Portuguese):
The Portuguese text explains the historical roots of the image, referring to:

• The House of Blaeu
• Cartographer Willem Blaeu
• The year 1665
• A reference to the engraver "Jacobo Altdorffio"
• The workshop “Atelier Polanaki” in Brazil

This confirms the piece is not original to the 1600s, but rather a vintage tribute to that era's mapmaking, crafted for decorative or educational purposes.

Market and Collectibility:

• These leather scroll maps have modest collector value as decorative art, especially among fans of old world cartography.
• Most similar items sell online and in vintage shops in the $60–$125 USD range depending on size, condition, and rarity.
• Higher values may be possible if it is part of a signed or limited series from Atelier Polanaki.

Recommendations:

• Keep it stored or displayed flat to prevent further curling or stress on the leather.
• If desired, consider light conditioning with leather-safe preservation wax to prevent brittleness.
• Do not clean with water or alcohol-based products.