Among the most interesting decorative works of cartography is a series of arresting maps showing the Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. This wonderful, reduced version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original 1583 Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing right with the right paw raised and holding a shield. This edition is unusual from others as it is inserted as a plate in the volume instead of serving as the frontispiece. it is beautifully engraved with three ships and a compass rose completing the composition. The De Bello Belgico, written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome, was a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence. The book also includes a frontispiece, title page, preface, 13 single-page portraits, 520 pages of text, and an extended index. Bound in full vellum.

References: Tooley (MCC-7) #20.

Condition: A

The folding map is clean and bright with a tiny binding tear at lower left and a few small dampstains in the top blank margin. Text is tight with a hint of toning along the sheet edges. Covers have minor soiling, light wear and bumped corners.