Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571-1638) was a Dutch cartographer, atlas maker, and publisher who played a pivotal role in the golden age of Netherlandish cartography. Born in Uitgeest or Alkmaar, Blaeu’s interests lay in mathematics and astronomy rather than his destined trade as a herring salesman. He studied under the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, qualifying as an instrument and globe maker. Blaeu’s son, Joan Blaeu, also became a renowned cartographer. Willem’s contributions included country maps and world globes, often produced in atlas format. His printing works allowed him to publish maps by notable figures like Willebrord Snell, Descartes, and Hugo Grotius. In 1633, he became the map-maker for the Dutch East India Company. His legacy continued through his sons, Johannes and Cornelis Blaeu, who carried on the family’s mapmaking and publishing business. Blaeu’s maps even found their way into the works of the Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, where they adorned walls and tables with meticulous detail.