Catalog Archive
Auction 199, Lot 58

"Mappa Fluxus et Refluxus Rationes in Isthmo Americano, in Freto Magellanico, Caeterisque Americae Litoribus Exhibens", Kircher, Athanasius

Subject: Western Hemisphere - America

Period: 1665 (circa)

Publication: Mundus Subterraneus…

Color: Black & White

Size:
16.1 x 13.4 inches
40.9 x 34 cm
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Very unusual map depicting all of South America and most of North America. The map is totally devoid of political detail with the exception of the floating city of Mexico, shown a bit too far north, and California is named. Instead the map features the principal rivers, lakes, mountains and volcanoes in South America. A huge crater lake, probably Lake Titicaca although it is situated too far north, is depicted as the source of the Amazon. The Andes are shown as a range of live volcanoes. Three sailing ships and a strapwork title cartouche adorn the map. Kircher is credited with publishing the first book describing the ocean's currents and this map is a beautiful example of his representations that are surprisingly accurate.

References: Burden #382.

Condition: B+

Issued folding with light toning and scattered foxing. A short fold separation at bottom that just passes the border has been closed on verso with archival tape. A few other minor separations/edge tears confined to the top blank margin have also been closed on verso with archival tape.

Estimate: $450 - $550

Sold for: $325

Closed on 9/11/2024

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