A. Zea [on sheet with] Fermene, by Benedetto Bordone, from Isolario, published 1528, hand color (5.7 x 3.3"). This sheet from Bordone's Isolario features two simple and elegant woodblock maps. At top is a map of Kea with an exaggerated port. Below is a map of Kythnos. Bordone was an illuminator and wood-engraver, working in Venice, when he was given permission by the Senate in 1508 to print maps of Italy and the world. None of those maps have survived and his only remaining works are the maps from his Isolario. Isolario, (which translates as "book of islands," was the first atlas covering the entire world based on contemporary information rather than classical geography. It included 112 simple and striking maps scattered through the text, depicting islands throughout the world, with a particular emphasis on islands in the Mediterranean Sea. Bordone first published his Isolario in 1528, with further editions in 1534, 1547, and 1565. On a sheet of Italian text measuring 8.1 x 12.0". Reference: Mickwitz & Miekkavaara #27-57 & 58; Shirley (BL Atlases) T-BORD-1a #59 & 60. Condition: There is a minor dampstain at top left that is barely visible in the Kea map.

B. Zea, by Olfert Dapper, from Naukeurige Beschryving der Eilanden, published 1688, black & white (6.6 x 4.9"). This small decorative map shows the island of Kea from the Cyclades archipelago. There is some topographical detail and a few place names: a city also named Zea, Fonte della Pazzia, and the tiny island of Scoglieto. Numerous ships fill the Aegean Sea, and a small compass rose orients north to the top right. The title appears on a banner cartouche. Originally published on a sheet with another map that has been trimmed away on this example. Reference: Shirley (BL Atlases) G.DAPP-5a #22.2. Condition: A crisp impression with marginal dampstaining.

References:

Condition: A

See description above.