Catalog Archive
Auction 199, Lot 558

"Turcicum Imperium", Blaeu, (Family)

Subject: Eastern Mediterranean & Middle East

Period: 1640 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.6 x 16.2 inches
52.3 x 41.1 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

This is a very handsome map covering the Turkish Empire at the height of its power. The region it covers is from the Balkans to Persia and from Northern Africa through the Arabian Peninsula. It is embellished with a fine cartouche showing the Turkish Sultan on his throne and allegorical figures at either side brandishing weapons. A second cartouche contains the coat of arms and dedication to David de Wilhem, a Dutch patrician who traveled in Egypt, Palestine and Syria in the 1620s. Sailing ships can be seen in the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas. Latin text on verso, published between 1640-55.

References: Ankary #52; Tibbets #84; Van der Krogt (Vol. II) #8100:2.

Condition: A

A crisp impression with minor printer's ink residue, a few extraneous creases along the centerfold that have been pressed flat, and some tiny tears along the edges of the sheet that have been archivally repaired.

Estimate: $600 - $750

Sold for: $425

Closed on 9/11/2024

Archived