Catalog Archive
Auction 159, Lot 446

"Gallia Vetus, ad Iulij Caesaris Commentaria", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: France

Period: 1590 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.3 x 14.1 inches
46.5 x 35.8 cm
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Ortelius based this map of ancient France on information from Caesar's De Bello Gallico. It is engraved to show the mountains, rivers and forests with only a few ancient place names. The names of famous people and tribes of Gallia, as described by Caesar, are listed at sides. It is a handsome map with tiny ships sailing in the seas and three strapwork cartouches containing the title, scale and dedication, all surrounded in an elaborately engraved strapwork border. From the first of two plates, with Latin text on verso, published in 1592.

References: Van den Broecke #194.

Condition: B+

A crisp impression with full original color on watermarked paper with minor toning, faint offsetting, and light damps stains in the blank margins.

Estimate: $300 - $375

Sold for: $475

Closed on 9/14/2016

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