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, miniature 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 version is beautifully engraved with a stippled sea filled with ships, a sea monster and a compass rose. 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. Published in Antwerp by Joannis Cnobbari.

References: Tooley (MCC-7) #26.

Condition: A

A nice impression on a watermarked sheet with marginal soiling and a narrow left margin, as issued.