Catalog Archive
Auction 181, Lot 476

"Portugalliae que olim Lusitania, Novissima & Exactissima Descriptio, Auctore Vernando Alvaro Secco", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Portugal

Period: 1572 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.1 x 13.3 inches
51.1 x 33.8 cm
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This is one of the earliest and most beautiful maps of Portugal. It is oriented with north to the right and richly adorned with two large cartouches, sailing ships and a very devilish-looking sea monster. The map is based on Fernando Alvarez Secco's map of 1560. The cartouche at bottom contains a dedication from Secco to Cardinal Camerlengo, Guido Ascanius Sfortia that enumerates the great achievements of Portugal. This is the first state. German text on verso, published 1572-73.

References: Van den Broecke #26.

Condition: A

A crisp impression with minor soiling mostly confined to the margins.

Estimate: $450 - $550

Sold for: $300

Closed on 2/10/2021

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