Tabula Russiae ex autograph, quod delineandum curavit Foedor filius Tzaris Boris

An attractive 17th century map of Russia with a view of Arkhangelsk.

This elegant map of Russia (then alternatively known as the Tsardom of Muscovy) captures the embryonic empire during the Time of Troubles (1598-1613). Tsar Boris Godunov, referenced in the title block, allegedly prepared the survey on which the map was based. Because of the geopolitical uncertainty of the era, Western cartographers had limited sources of information, and the image was replicated several times in the first half of the 17th century. This example was published in Frankfurt around 1640 as part of a German volume by Matthias Merian.

A somewhat rudimentary engraving presents an interesting overview of Russia near the end of the 16th century. The vast majority of the settlements are concentrated along the nation’s navigable rivers. Adjacent kingdoms are outlined and labeled, with the Ottoman Empire, Poland-Lithuania, and Sweden all posing significant threats to future expansion. Although the geography is a bit coarse, the map captures the strategic importance of maritime cities like Azov, Astracan, Christianoble, and Danzig.

A view of Arkhangelsk, Russia’s lone deepwater port and the point of entry for the vast majority of Europeans (at the time), is provided in the center right. Immediately above are three Russians in traditional dress, loose-fitting and thick in order to keep out the cold. Of notable interest is the inclusion of a member of the streltsy (literally, shooter), with a matchlock musket hoisted over his arm. These early firearm adopters were a military and social class that was organized by Ivan the Terrible as part of Russia’s first standing army.