Catalog Archive
Auction 115, Lot 41

"Ptolemaisch General Tafel Begreissend die halbe Rugel der Weldt", Munster, Sebastian

Subject: Ancient World

Period: 1540 (circa)

Publication: Geographia

Color: Hand Color

Size:
12.2 x 14.2 inches
31 x 36.1 cm
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This woodcut, Ptolemaic world map is surrounded by clouds and eleven windheads (their names in banners). The continents are oddly shaped and all connected by a great southern continent Terra incognito secundum Ptolemaeum. There is a very large Toprobana (modern day Sri Lanka) in the Indian Ocean, and the Indian subcontinent is severely truncated. Only the northern part of Africa is shown with the Nile originating in a series of lakes in a large mountain range.

References: Shirley #76

Condition: B

Couple of unobtrusive spots, mostly in blank margins. Binding holes in blank margins. Small paper flaw that is only noticeable when the map is held up to a strong light.

Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300

Sold for: $800

Closed on 6/21/2006

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