Catalog Archive
Auction 193, Lot 458

"Namurcum, Comitatus", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Southern Belgium

Period: 1579 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.3 x 15.3 inches
51.6 x 38.9 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

This fine map centered on Namur is richly embellished with forests, cities, mountains. This map is based on a manuscript map drawn by Jacques Surhon in 1555, which was suppressed for security reasons. In 1579, when Antwerp became independent for a brief period of time, Ortelius was able to use the manuscript map to create this copper plate. The map is adorned with an elaborate strapwork title cartouche, a compass rose, and a secondary cartouche containing the coat of arms of the region and the privilege imprint. This is the first state. Latin text on verso, published in 1595 or 1601.

References: Van den Broecke #68.

Condition: A

A nice impression on a sheet with the horn coat of arms watermarked commonly found on Ortelius maps. There is marginal soiling and an old paper repair in the bottom margin.

Estimate: $220 - $250

Sold for: $160

Closed on 6/21/2023

Archived