Old Map of Singapore & Malacca Strait by Bellin, 1755: Singapore Island, Malaysia, Indonesia, Lingga

'Carte Reduite des Detroits de Malaca, Sincapour, et du Gouverneur' is a remarkable testament to the cartographic mastery of Jacques Bellin, a leading French hydrographer of the 18th century. Published in 1755, this naval chart vividly portrays the intricate waterways and landforms of the Malacca Strait and Singapore Island, extending as far as Lingga Island in the south, Kuala Lumpur in the north, and the island of Sumatra in the southwest. The sparse representation of cities, a characteristic feature of naval charts, underscores the map's primary focus on maritime navigation. Bellin's exceptional attention to detail is evident in the precise delineation of coastlines, which were the most comprehensive of their time.

The map holds historical significance, not only as an artifact of 18th-century cartography but also as a window into the maritime history of Southeast Asia. The Malacca Strait, a crucial sea route linking the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea, was a hotbed of naval activity during the era. Singapore Island, now a bustling metropolis, is depicted in its nascent form, providing a fascinating contrast to its present-day avatar. The inclusion of the Indonesian islands near Singapore and mainland Malaysia, specifically Johor Bahru, further enhances the map's geographical coverage and historical value.

Bellin's map is a quintessential example of the naval chart style, characterized by its emphasis on nautical details. The delineation of water depths, currents, and navigational hazards, along with the precise plotting of coastlines, reveals the map's intended use for seafaring. The sparse representation of terrestrial features underscores this focus, providing a stark contrast to the more populated and detailed maps of the period. This stylistic choice reflects the practical needs of 18th-century mariners, for whom accurate maritime information was a matter of survival.

In conclusion, 'Carte Reduite des Detroits de Malaca, Sincapour, et du Gouverneur' is a historically informative map that offers valuable insights into the maritime history of Southeast Asia and the cartographic practices of the 18th century. It stands as a testament to Jacques Bellin's skill and the enduring appeal of naval charts. Whether viewed as a historical artifact, a work of art, or a tool of navigation, this map is a worthy addition to any collection.

• Significant Routes or Trails
• The Malacca Strait, a historically significant sea route connecting the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea.
• The maritime path around Singapore Island, a crucial node in 18th-century Southeast Asian trade.
• The navigational course leading to Lingga Island in the south.

• The sea route extending towards the island of Sumatra in the southwest.

• Major Cities

• Singapore, depicted in its early form before it became a bustling metropolis.

• Kuala Lumpur is not on this map (it hadn't feen founded yet), but a smaller town in the river delta can be seen that would later become KL

• Historic Landmarks or Events

• The naval activities in the Malacca Strait, a hotbed of maritime activity during the 18th century.
• The sparse representation of cities, reflecting the map's primary focus on maritime navigation.
• The precise delineation of coastlines, the most comprehensive of their time, reflecting Jacques Bellin's exceptional attention to detail.
• The inclusion of the Indonesian islands near Singapore and mainland Malaysia, specifically Johor Bahru, which enhances the map's geographical coverage and historical value.
• The map's emphasis on nautical details, such as water depths, currents, and navigational hazards, which reveal its intended use for seafaring.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.