Catalog Archive
Auction 140, Lot 633

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

Subject: Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia

Period: 1598 (published)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17.5 x 14 inches
44.5 x 35.6 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 at top left. Dutch text on verso.

References: Van den Broecke #162.

Condition: B+

There is a tiny paper repair and small spot along centerfold at top, and a few short tears and chips confined to blank margins that have been professionally repaired.

Estimate: $1,600 - $2,000

Sold for: $1,500

Closed on 5/23/2012

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