Catalog Archive
Auction 188, Lot 36

"Aevi Veteris, Typus Geographicus", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Ancient World

Period: 1590 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17.3 x 12.3 inches
43.9 x 31.2 cm
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This interesting map presents the regions of the earth that were known in classic times within a large oval projection showing the relative size of the now-known world. The map extends into Asia as far east as Sumatra and south to Madagascar and the Mountains of the Moon in Africa. The climate zones are shown as Zona frigida, temperata, and torrida, with the Zona frigida noted as being uninhabitable. An ornate border surrounds the map and incorporates four small insets: Europe, Asia, Africa and America representing the "modern" world. Latin text on verso, published in 1592.

References: Shirley #176; Van den Broecke #186.

Condition: B+

A dark impression on a sturdy sheet with the horn coat of arms watermark commonly found on Ortelius maps. There are large, very faint dampstains at top and bottom center, and an archivally repaired centerfold separation that enters 3" into image at bottom.

Estimate: $900 - $1,100

Sold for: $650

Closed on 6/22/2022

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