Catalog Archive
Auction 187, Lot 385

Ortelius' Earliest Map of Britain

"Angliae, Scotiae, et Hiberniae, sive Britannicar: Insularum Descriptio", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Britain

Period: 1571 (published)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Black & White

Size:
19.7 x 13.6 inches
50 x 34.5 cm
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This map, based on the cartography of Gerard Mercator, is Ortelius' earliest map of Britain. Flemish influence, or possibly a mistranslation, is evident in the rendering of some of the place names, e.g. Ormyskyrk for Ormskirk, Dantre for Daventry, and the omission of the relatively important Peterborough. Distinguished by a sophisticated style of engraving, the map is embellished with two ornate strapwork cartouches, the royal coat of arms of the UK, dividers and distance scale and five sailing ships. Latin text on verso.

References: Shirley (MCC-94) #86, pl. 42; Van den Broecke #16.

Condition: A

A nice, early impression on a watermarked sheet with some small worm holes in the image that have been professionally infilled.

Estimate: $750 - $900

Sold for: $650

Closed on 4/27/2022

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