"Namurcum, Comitatus", Ortelius, Abraham

This fine map centered on Namur is richly embellished with forests, cities, mountains. This map is based on a manuscript map drawn by Jacques Surhon in 1555, which was suppressed for security reasons. In 1579, when Antwerp became independent for a brief period of time, Ortelius was able to use the manuscript map to create this copper plate. The map is adorned with an elaborate strapwork title cartouche, a compass rose, and a secondary cartouche containing the coat of arms of the region and the privilege imprint. This is the first state. Latin text on verso, published in 1595 or 1601.

References: Van den Broecke #68.

Condition: A

A nice impression on a sheet with the horn coat of arms watermarked commonly found on Ortelius maps. There is marginal soiling and an old paper repair in the bottom margin.