Petrus Plancius

Petrus Plancius was a Flemish cartographer and astronomer who achieved fame and wealth in the service of the Dutch East India Company.

Born as Pieter Platevoet in a wealthy family of Dranouter, he was educated as a Calvinist theologian with interests in cartography and globe productions. Determined to build a career in this field Plancius moved to Amsterdam in 1585 which was at that time a major center of these activities.

As a promoter of the Dutch naval expeditions Plancius was also one of the founders of the famous Dutch East India Company. Furthermore, he put his skills in the service of the company and became the first chart maker of the company. During his service Plancius created more than hundreds maps for the company, and significantly contributed to its commercial and political rise.