Catalog Archive
Auction 88, Lot 26

"Regiones Sub Polo Arctico", Blaeu, Willem

Subject: North Pole

Period: 1645 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.7 x 16 inches
52.6 x 40.6 cm
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One of the many cases of duplication by the firms of Blaeu and Hondius/Jansson. In this case, Blaeu has copied Jansson's map of 1637. It depicts rhumb lines radiating from the North Pole. A large title cartouche, with two figures and numerous wind heads, conveniently hides the northwest coast of America. The map is further decorated with several compass roses, ships and an additional cartouche that features men in parkas, a polar bear and foxes. Dedication to Guilielmo Backer de Corneliis, which indicates this issue is from the second state of the plate. Ref: Burden #252. Lovely original outline color on map and fully colored decorations. Very fine condition.

References:

Condition: A+

Estimate: $1,200 - $1,300

Sold for: $1,400

Closed on 10/2/1999

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