The map titled Saxonia Superioris Circulus offers a detailed depiction of the Upper Saxon Circle, a significant territorial division within the Holy Roman Empire. Created by Matthäus Seutter, a prominent 18th-century cartographer from Augsburg, this map encompasses various duchies, electorates, and principalities within the region. The allegorical cartouche and precise geographical details provide both a visual and historical exploration of Saxony and its neighboring areas during the early 18th century.
The map meticulously delineates the boundaries and principal territories of Upper Saxony, including the Electorate of Saxony, the Margraviate of Meissen, and the Landgraviate of Thuringia. It also features the principalities of Anhalt and Schwarzburg, the County of Mansfeld, and the Voigtland region. Major cities such as Dresden, Leipzig, and Halle are prominently marked, highlighting their significance as cultural and economic hubs.
Several major rivers traverse the region, including the Elbe, Saale, and Mulde rivers. These waterways were vital for trade, transportation, and strategic military movements, contributing to the prosperity and defense of the territories within the Upper Saxon Circle.
The allegorical cartouche in the upper right corner of the map is a rich illustration embodying various symbolic elements. It depicts personifications of wisdom and military strength, indicative of the region's intellectual and martial heritage. A female figure, possibly representing Saxonia, stands with a spear and shield, signifying protection and resilience. Beside her, another figure sits with a sword and globe, symbolizing authority and the extent of Saxon influence.
In the early 18th century, the Upper Saxon Circle was a vital component of the Holy Roman Empire, playing a crucial role in the political, cultural, and economic landscape of Central Europe. Saxony, in particular, was a significant electoral state, with its Elector, Augustus II the Strong, also serving as King of Poland during this period. This dual role amplified Saxony's influence in European affairs, particularly during the Great Northern War (1700-1721) and the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714).
The early 18th century also saw substantial developments in culture and education within Saxony. Dresden, the capital, became renowned for its baroque architecture and flourishing arts scene. Leipzig emerged as a center of commerce and learning, with its university attracting scholars from across Europe.
Matthäus Seutter (1678-1757) was a prominent German mapmaker in the mid-eighteenth century. Initially apprenticed to a brewer, he trained as an engraver under Johann Baptist Homann in Nuremburg before setting up shop in his native Augsburg. In 1727 he was granted the title Imperial Geographer. His most famous work is Atlas Novus Sive Tabulae Geographicae, published in two volumes ca. 1730, although the majority of his maps are based on earlier work by other cartographers like the Homanns, Delisles, and de Fer.
Alternative spellings: Matthias Seutter, Mathaus Seutter, Matthaeus Seutter, Mattheus Seutter