Subject: World
Period: 1730 (published)
Publication:
Color: Black & White
Size:
9.1 x 14.6 inches
23.1 x 37.1 cm
This map is a copy of the two hemispheres presented on Martin Behaim's 1492 Erdapfel, which is the world's oldest surviving terrestrial globe. It presents a pre-Columbian view of the world with Europe, Africa, and western Asia in one hemisphere, and Eastern Asia in the other. The map is surrounded by explanatory text and decorated by a portrait of Behaim at top.
The map is still bound in Doppelmayr's historical review of the artisans and mathematicians of Nuremburg, which includes 14 additional engravings of statues, monuments, fountains and other artistic structures, as well as medallion portraits of famous artists and mathematicians. Folio, title page, preface, 314 pp., index, and 15 engravings (including the world map). Hardbound in new quarter vellum with tips over marbled paper-covered boards, with manuscript titling on spine.
References: Nordenskiold (Facsimile Atlas) pl. 40; Mickwitz & Miekkavaara (Vol 3) #432.
Condition: A
The entire volume is in excellent condition, with minor toning and soiling mostly confined to the very edges of the leafs. There are also a few light damp stains affecting the edges on a couple of the engravings. The title page has an old stamp at bottom right and is partially detached. The covers have some stains and bumped corners.