Code: 54883
Date: 1728
Sea chart. Oriented to the west. Shetland Islands. Inset: Region around Lerwick. Uncoloured as issued. Overall sheet size: 60.1 cms x 53.8cms; image size: 581mm x 508mm.
Gerard Van Keulen (1678-1726) was the son of Johannes van Keulen chartmaker who published 40 charts in 1680. Gerard van Keulen was a skilful engraver and proficient in mathematics and navigational science. He was responsible for establishing the scientific basis of the firm of Van Keulen. In 1714 he was appointed to the office of hydrographer to the Dutch East India Company. The Van Keulens remained chart makers to the East India Company until the Company’s liquidation.
With the introductions to the Zee-Fakkel and Zee-Atlas, Gerard van Keulen gave a new impetus to the firm. Sadly he died at 49 years old . The business was carried on by his widow Ludwina Konst. Shortly before Gerard’s death, his son Johannes II had entered the bookseller’s guild, and in 1726 he assumed the management of the firm, though his mother retained her financial interests in the business.
