Catalog Archive
Auction 123, Lot 23

"[Untitled - World and Horological Diagrams]", Ritter, Franz

Subject: World

Period: 1681 (published)

Publication: Speculum Solis…

Color: Hand Color

Size:
13 x 10.7 inches
33 x 27.2 cm
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A rare and extremely unusual map shows the world projected from the North Pole as if it were the table of a sundial. The landmasses are drawn to scale in proportion to their distance from the pole. The result is a very distorted, though mathematically correct, projection. Ten horological diagrams surround the central map and all are enclosed in a decorative border. The plate was designed for Ritter's first edition of the Speculum Solis in 1607. It is a synopsis of all the plates that appear in his later editions.

References: cf Shirley #270.

Condition: A

A velvety dark impression. Professional repair of a tiny binding tear into border at left. Minor printer's crease at bottom right.

Estimate: $1,600 - $1,800

Sold for: $3,250

Closed on 2/20/2008

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