Catalog Archive
Auction 195, Lot 791

"Spectandum Dedit Ortelius Mortalib. Orbem, Orbi Spectandum Galleus Ortelium", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Frontispiece, Portrait

Period: 1579 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
8.3 x 12.8 inches
21.1 x 32.5 cm
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This famous portrait of Ortelius, at the age of about 50, was engraved by Philippe Galle and appeared in the Theatrum from 1579 onwards. Few other portraits of the great cartographer have survived. The Latin title translation is, "By looking, Ortelius gave to mortal beings the world, by looking at his face, Galleus gave them Ortelius." The portrait is surrounded in a strapwork and garland frame. Latin text on verso.

References:

Condition: B+

A nice impression in full contemporary color with a couple errant spots of colorist's ink and a few light stains at top left. Remnants of hinge tape on verso.

Estimate: $450 - $550

Sold for: $325

Closed on 11/15/2023

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