Among the most interesting decorative works of cartography is a series of arresting maps showing the Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. This wonderful, reduced version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original 1583 Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing right with the right paw raised and holding a shield. This edition is unusual from others as it is inserted as a plate in the volume instead of serving as the frontispiece. it is beautifully engraved with three ships and a compass rose completing the composition. The De Bello Belgico, written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome, was a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence. The book also includes a frontispiece, title page, preface, 11 single-page portraits, 520 pages of text, and an extended index. 12mo., hardbound in full leather.

References: Tooley (MCC-7) #20.

Condition: B+

The map has some light dampstains and a short binding tear at right that just enters the image. Contents are clean and tight. The covers and spine have moderate wear and abrasions. Both boards have separated from the text block and have been reattached to the spine with leather bands.