Catalog Archive
Auction 198, Lot 672

"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:
8.2 x 12.6 inches
20.8 x 32 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. French text on verso.

References:

Condition: B+

Nice impression and color with a tiny hole in the lower image that is only visible when held to light. There is some minor toning and soiling confined to the margins, and some tiny edge tears and chips along the lower sheet edge far from the image.

Estimate: $450 - $550

Sold for: $325

Closed on 6/19/2024

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