Catalog Archive
Auction 108, Lot 445

"Russiae, Moscoviae et Tartariae Descriptio…", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Russia

Period: 1579 (published)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17.5 x 13.7 inches
44.5 x 34.8 cm
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Fascinating map of Russia and the former Soviet republics from the surveys of the English merchant and adventurer, Anthony Jenkinson, in 1562. Jenkinson was leader of the Muscovy Company's first expedition to Russia and the first European to travel widely throughout the region. Ortelius' map replicates much of the detail and decoration found on the original Jenkinson map complete with extensive notations, illustrations of Cossacks, camels, encampments, armies, and a curious burial scene where the dead are hung from trees. A vignette of Ivan the Terrible appears top left. Latin text and page number 82 on verso.

References: Van den Broecke #162.

Condition: B

Small hole and tear on centerfold have been repaired with Japanese tissue. Margins have been slightly trimmed, evidently in a previous rebinding.

Estimate: $1,200 - $1,400

Sold for: $2,500

Closed on 9/29/2004

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