Catalog Archive
Auction 127, Lot 18

"Tabula Geographico-Hydrographica Motus Oceani Currentes, Abyssos, Montes Igniuomos in Universo", Zahn, Johannes

Subject: World

Period: 1696 (circa)

Publication: Mundus Mirabili…

Color: Hand Color

Size:
16.5 x 14 inches
41.9 x 35.6 cm
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This unusual map is a very scarce example of early thematic cartography. It depicts ocean currents, volcanoes and deep-sea chasms; each is marked by the appropriate symbol noted in the title cartouche. The continents are void of political detail and only major lakes, rivers and volcanoes are shown. There are prominent Northwest and Northeast Passages and a vast southern continent. The magnificently decorative title cartouche is formed within a florid pediment supported by cherubs. The map is based on Happel and Kircher's theories of 1675. Zahn was a philosopher of the Praemonstratensian order at Wurzburg who wrote a number of pseudo-scientific works.

References: Shirley #583.

Condition: A

Light toning and soil in blank margins, else fine. A couple minor tears in the margins have been expertly repaired with tissue on verso.

Estimate: $2,400 - $3,000

Sold for: $2,300

Closed on 2/25/2009

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