Catalog Archive
Auction 168, Lot 470

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

Subject: France

Period: 1590 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.4 x 14.1 inches
46.7 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. This is the second state with minor changes to the place names. Latin text on verso, published in 1595.

References: Van den Broecke #194.

Condition: A

On watermarked paper with minor soiling.

Estimate: $475 - $600

Sold for: $550

Closed on 6/6/2018

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