British Library digitises giant Klencke Atlas
The British Library has completed a full digitisation of the Klencke Atlas, one of the world's largest books. Measuring 1.80 by 2 metres when open and requiring five to six people to carry, the atlas was created in 1660 for King Charles II of England upon his accession to the throne. It was presented by a consortium of Dutch merchants led by sugar trader Johannes Klencke, whose name the atlas still bears. The volume contains 41 maps and is a prized item in the British Library's collection in London. A time-lapse video released by the library shows the entire digitisation process, from transport to high-resolution photography of every page. The digital images are now freely available online for scholars and enthusiasts.
Key facts
- The Klencke Atlas is one of the world's largest books.
- It measures 1.80 m by 2 m when open.
- It requires 5 to 6 people to carry.
- The atlas was created in 1660 for King Charles II of England.
- It was presented by a consortium of Dutch merchants led by Johannes Klencke.
- The atlas contains 41 maps.
- It is held by the British Library in London.
- The British Library has completed a full digitisation of the atlas.
Entities
Institutions
- British Library
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom