Catalog Archive
Auction 145, Lot 331

"Hispania Nova", Hondius/Purchas

Subject: Mexico

Period: 1625 (published)

Publication: Purchas His Pilgrimes

Color: Black & White

Size:
7.2 x 5.5 inches
18.3 x 14 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

Originally published in Hondius' Atlas Minor, this charming small map of central and western Mexico is filled with interesting detail. Mexico City is located on the banks of a large lake, and numerous gold and silver mines are scattered across the map. Strapwork title cartouche and scale of miles. On a full sheet of English text (8 x 12.5") which provides fascinating reading about the New World.

At the beginning of the 17th century, Samuel Purchas, an English cleric, set out to publish a compendium of voyages to foreign countries. To illustrate his work, Purchase obtained the rights to use Jodocus Hondius' copperplates from Atlas Minor. Over 60 maps were included in Purchas His Pilgrimes, most of which were from Hondius' plates, with English titles inserted above them. Purchas also had a few additional maps engraved, including those for India, China, Greenland, North America, and Nova Scotia.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) G.PUR-1a #57.

Condition: B+

Trimmed to the neatline at right as issued with one small spot in the image. There is one small worm hole and damp stain in the text above the image.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $250

Closed on 6/12/2013

Archived