Catalog Archive
Auction 141, Lot 687

"[Lot of 2] Africae Descriptio [and] Abissinorum sive Pretiosi Ioannis Imperium", Mercator/Jansson

Subject: Africa

Period: 1630 (circa)

Publication: Atlas Minor

Color: Hand Color

Size:
7.8 x 5.5 inches
19.8 x 14 cm
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A. Africae Descriptio. Fine small map of Africa, which is based largely on the work of Hernicus Hondius and incorporates information from Bleau’s map of 1617, especially on the river systems. Though smaller in size, the map includes more place names than Hondius' 1607 folio map of the continent. It is decorated with a delicate title cartouche. Engraved by Abraham Goos. German text on verso. References: Betz #64-1.

B. Abissinorum sive Pretiosi Ioannis Imperium. Charming map of the legendary land of the Christian king, Prester John, with his fortified kingdom shown atop a mountain. The Nile River emanates from two large lakes near the Lunae Montes (Mountains of the Moon). The map is adorned with a large strapwork title and scale cartouche. Engraved by Petrus Kaerius. German text on verso.

References:

Condition: B+

There is light text through and light damp staining primarily in the blank margins in both maps.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $300

Closed on 9/5/2012

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