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The written notes on this map describe the discovery and conquest of the Philippines by the Spanish, and also emphasise the importance of trade in the region. Illustrations of trading ships on the sea reinforce the trade theme.

This map shows the route of the first Dutch expedition to Southeast Asia in 1595-7. Led by Cornelis de Houtman, it was an attempt to enter the spice trade. The route crosses east over the Indian Ocean, circles the island of Java, and returns west.

A colourful 16th century map by André Thevet, with illustrations of ships and sea monsters around the seas of Southeast Asia. The map's scale is decorated with cartography tools such as rulers and a compass.