"Accurate Vorstellung der Orientalisch-Kayserlichen Haupt- und Residenz-Stadt Constantinopel samt ihrer Gegend und Zweyen Beruhmten Meer-Engen, Bosphoro Thracio, und Hellesponto…", Homann, Johann Baptist

This is one of the most decorative maps of the strategic region between the Mediterranean and Black seas. A large inset features a bird's-eye view of the Dardanelles with several ships engaged in battle in the Sea of Marmara with Constantinople in the background. This decorative inset is framed with coats-of-arms, flags, shields and figures representing "civilized" Europe on the left and "barbaric" Asia on the right. The lower third of the sheet is a finely rendered bird's-eye panorama of Constantinople viewed from the north, probably from the heights of Pera. A legend names and locates 30 important buildings, such as the Seraglio, Hagia Sophia, several mosques, etc. The Galata Tower is shown, as is the entrance to the Golden Horn before any bridges were built.

References: Manasek #70.

Condition: A

Expert paper repairs along centerfold and in blank margins. Previous owner has written the date "1730" on the inset cartouche at right in pencil.