Catalog Archive
Auction 143, Lot 622

"Sicilia Regnum", Blaeu, Willem

Subject: Sicily, Italy

Period: 1640 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.5 x 15 inches
49.5 x 38.1 cm
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This is a strikingly graphic map of the Kingdom of Sicily. The map is filled with topography and towns, including Palermo, Syracuse, Messina, as well as the erupting Mt. Aetna and Lake Pergusa, the mythological place where the goddess Persephone was taken into the underworld. The map is richly decorated with two coats of arms, two deftly engraved compass roses, and a variety of ships. The title cartouche is emblazoned on a flag held by Persephone, symbolizing her return from the underworld. Latin text on verso.

References:

Condition: A

Watermarked paper with wide margins and attractive color. A short tear in right blank margin has been closed with archival tape.

Estimate: $950 - $1,100

Sold for: $600

Closed on 2/13/2013

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