Scarce little map based on the fourteenth century manuscript of Pietro Vesconte compiled by Sanudo. This is the most complete representation known of the great crusading fortress on the eve of its destruction, with the quarters of all its defenders (Templars, etc.) shown. Trimmed and mounted on a hand-laid, watermarked sheet of probably 18th century paper for inclusion in a composite atlas.

Marino Sanudo was a Venetian statesman and geographer in the 14th century. He is best known for his life-long attempts to revive the Crusades. His great work, the Secreta (or Liber Secretorum Fidelium Crucis), was written in manuscript and presented to popes and kings in an attempt to persuade them to launch another series of crusades. Through its accompanying maps and plans, which were the work of the great sea-chart maker Petrus Vesconte, it occupies an important place in the development of cartography. The Secreta was only printed once and published with Bongars Gesta Dei per Francos, by Wechelius in 1611.

References: Laor #1146; Mickwitz & Miekkavaara (Nordenskiold III) #346-II-5; cf Nebenzahl (HL) fig. 9.

Condition: B+

Lightly toned with some minor spots.