Catalog Archive
Auction 120, Lot 616

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

Subject: Russia

Period: 1570 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17.3 x 13.6 inches
43.9 x 34.5 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 46 on verso.

References: Van den Broecke #162.

Condition: B+

Nice impression on sturdy paper. Margin trimmed on the right but still sufficient for framing. Paper reinforcement of centerfold on verso, with some old script.

Estimate: $1,100 - $1,500

Sold for: $2,200

Closed on 7/18/2007

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