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
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.