Catalog Archive
Auction 103, Lot 531

"Aethiopia Superior vel Interior; vulgo Abissinorum sive Presbiteri Ioannis Imperium", Covens & Mortier

Subject: Central Africa

Period: 1730 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
21 x 16 inches
53.3 x 40.6 cm
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Fine map of eastern and central Africa. Appears to be from the Blaeu plate with updates as the west coast is quite different than the Blaeu. It depicts the legendary Christian Kingdom of Prester John. Fabled rivers and numerous exotic animals fill the otherwise empty spaces of the unexplored interior. There is a fair amount of detail on the eastern coast, reflecting the Portuguese and Arab trading interests. Locates Mozambique, Zaire, Angola, Nubia, Mogadishu, Mombassa, and Quiloa [Kilwa]. The Zaire River is prominent among the many rivers flowing to the west coast. Below the equator are located two large lakes as the source of the Nile River. Much else of interest in this fine decorative map with an original colored, figurative title cartouche and scale of miles. Covens & Mortier imprint below cartouche.

References:

Condition: A+

Dark, crisp impression, fine coloring and wide margins.

Estimate: $600 - $700

Unsold

Closed on 6/11/2003

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