Ancient map of the World, 1679

"Novissima totius terrarum orbis tabula" is a Latin title that translates to "The newest map of the whole world" in English. It refers to a world map created by the Dutch cartographer Nicolaes Visscher in 1679.

Nicolaes Visscher was a prominent mapmaker and engraver who lived in Amsterdam during the 17th century. He came from a family of cartographers and continued their tradition by producing high-quality maps and atlases.

The map "Novissima totius terrarum orbis tabula" was part of Visscher's impressive portfolio of cartographic works. As with many maps from that era, it likely featured elaborate artistic elements and intricate detailing of geographical features known at the time. The 17th century was a period of significant exploration and cartographic advancements, but some regions of the world were still not fully explored or accurately represented on maps.

Nicolaes Visscher (also spelled Claes Visscher) was a Dutch cartographer, engraver, and publisher who lived during the 17th century. He was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, around 1618 and died in the same city in 1679.

Visscher came from a family of mapmakers and engravers. He was the son of Nicolas Janszoon Visscher, and his grandfather was Claes Janszoon Visscher, both of whom were prominent mapmakers in their time. Nicolaes Visscher continued the family tradition and became a highly skilled cartographer and map engraver.

He produced a wide range of maps, atlases, and prints, which were well-regarded for their accuracy and detail. Some of his most notable works include world maps, regional maps of Europe, city plans, and maps of the Dutch provinces. Visscher's maps were characterized by their decorative elements, including ornate cartouches, illustrations, and elaborate borders.

Visscher's business was successful, and he was well-respected among his contemporaries. His maps were widely distributed and used for various purposes, such as navigation, exploration, and historical documentation.

After Nicolaes Visscher's death in 1679, his business was continued by his widow and later by his son, Nicolaes Visscher II, who also became a prominent cartographer and engraver.