Catalog Archive
Auction 186, Lot 703

"Africa Vetus", Sanson/Mariette

Subject: Africa

Period: 1667 (dated)

Publication: Cartes Generales de Toutes les Parties du Monde…

Color: Hand Color

Size:
22.1 x 15.9 inches
56.1 x 40.4 cm
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This elegantly engraved map of the continent features an unusual coastline with numerous inlets. The map is divided into regions with classical names, and all the tribes of southern Africa are labeled Anthropophagi Aethiopes (cannibals). The interior geography is standard for the period with the Ptolemaic twin lakes conception of the Nile's origin. A wreath-style cartouche flanked by putti encloses the title.

References: Betz #106; Norwich #41; Pastoureau, SANSON V D [203].

Condition: A

A dark impression on a bright sheet with a coat of arms watermark, contemporary outline color in the map and later color in the cartouche, and minor marginal soiling.

Estimate: $475 - $600

Sold for: $375

Closed on 2/9/2022

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