This beautiful and very rare contempary hand coloured map 'Asia in Praecipuas Ipsius partes Distributa ad Observationes...' by Pieter van der Aa from the atlas 'Le Nouveau Theatre' which was published in Leiden in 1713, is a detailed and charming map of Asia. 
 
Pieter van der Aa (1659-1733) was a Dutch cartographer as well as publisher who is best known for his atlases and travel books. He was born in Leiden, Netherlands, and was the son of a printer. After completing his education, he joined his father's business and started producing maps and prints. In 1682, Pieter Van der Aa published his first major work 'Naauwkeurige Versameling der Gedenk-Waardigste Zee en Land-Reysen'.
 
He was known for his skilful engraving and printing, as well as his meticulous attention to detail. His maps were often based on the latest geographic knowledge and exploration, and he made efforts to update and improve his works over time. He was also a member of the booksellers' guild in Leiden and played an active role in the Dutch publishing industry.
 
The condition of this map is very good, it has a very small restoration, mostly in the margin. The map is a copperplate engraving.