Catalog Archive
Auction 141, Lot 563

"Obeliscus Flaminius; Cujus Notas Hucusq Reconditas Ferdinandus III Caesar e Tenebris in lucem Vindicavit, Opera Athanasii Kircheri, e Societate Jesu", Blaeu, Johannes

Subject: Rome, Italy

Period: 1672 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
21.8 x 26.3 inches
55.4 x 66.8 cm
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Obeliscus Flaminius is situated in the center of the Piazza del Popolo, inside the northern gate in the Aurelian Walls, and was a traveller's first view of Rome upon arrival in the city. This dramatic engraving depicts and farmers passing the walls in the piazza. In the foreground are the four sides of the obelisk with the north and south side shown at left, and the east and west side shown at right. The dedication cartouche is to Ahanasius Kircher, who at the time was a leading expert on Egyptian hieroglyphics.

References:

Condition: B

Originally issued folding with two short fold separations that enter 1" into the image, light toning along the folds, and minor foxing. A printer’s flaw in the shape of a long rectangle stretches from the left obelisk into the cartouche.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $190

Closed on 9/5/2012

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