This frontispiece is the famous Leo Belgicus, or Lion of Belgium, depicting a map of Belgium and Holland in the form of a lion. This version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing right with the right paw raised and holding a shield. This is also the smallest version of all the Leos, measuring only 2.5 x 4", and bears the imprint of Ioachimum van Metelen. This version of the Leo Belgicus is not in Tooley's list of variants (MCC-7). The frontispiece appears in the popular history describing the war between the Low Countries and Spain between 1568 and 1648 from a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic viewpoint. Famiamo Strada was a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome. The book also includes a title page, about a dozen engraved portraits, 610 pages and an extended index. Original vellum binding with manuscript ink title on spine.

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Condition: B+

The map and text are lightly toned with marginal soiling. There is old manuscript writing on front pastedown. The binding is sound and the covers and spine are moderately soiled and bumped.