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Antique Maps, Globes, Charts,
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Close: June 12^th

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Lot #46 - "Polus Arcticus cum Vicinis Regionibus" Mercator/Hondius

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** Closed **

Lot 46
By: Mercator/Hondius
Subject: North Pole
Date: 1635 (circa)

Publication: Historia Mundi

Condition Code: A

See Condition Guidelines

Color: hand color

Size: 7.3 x 5.3 inches
18.6 x 13.5 cm

This is a reduced version of the second state of Mercator's famous North Pole map. It depicts the region between the pole and the Arctic Circle. This is one of the most intriguing early maps, combining medieval geographic concepts with some of the most advanced cartography of its day. The North Pole is shown as a rocky island surrounded by 'in-drawing seas' between four huge islands. The map shows an awareness of recent discoveries, including those of Frobisher and Davis, as well as the northern sea passage through America to Asia. It is a striking example of baroque engraving, with the map set off by the roundel title cartouche and inset maps of the Faeroes, the Shetlands and the mythical Frisland in the corners, and framed by a border of interlocking acanthus designs. English text on verso.

Condition Description: Light show-through of text on verso and minor soiling and archival paper repairs in blank margins.

Ref: Burden #154; Kershaw #29.

Estimate:
$400.00 - $500.00

Sold for: $300.00

This auction is closed!
The "Sold for:" amount shown above is the price realized not including the Buyer's Premium.