This very rare map of Spain and Portugal was published only in the first edition of Paulus Merula's Cosmographiae Generalis, which included 5 larger maps engraved by Johannes and Baptista van Doetecum and 38 maps from Petrus Bertius' Tabularum Geographicarum. The map extends to the Balearic Islands and the northern tip of Africa, and is filled with details of towns, rivers, mountains, and political boundaries. Elegantly engraved by Baptista van Doetecum, the map is embellished with a compass rose, sailing ship, and delicately patterned sea. The strapwork title cartouche encompasses the distance scale and is topped with the Royal coat of arms of Spain, ruled by the House of Habsburg.

Merula, a Dutch jurist, was appointed to the chair of history at the University of Leyden in 1592. In addition to this geography he also published folio editions, wrote many treatises on laws and history, and is also known for his geological studies.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) T.MERU-1a #4.

Condition: A

A fine impression with attractive color on watermarked paper. Issued folding, now pressed, with minor offsetting and a binding trim at left that has been professionally repaired.