Catalog Archive
Auction 101, Lot 443

"Erythraei Sive Rubri Maris Periplus. Olim Ab Arriano Descriptus", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: South Asia

Period: 1624 (published)

Publication: Parergon

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.2 x 14 inches
46.2 x 35.6 cm
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From Ortelius' series of historical maps. Covers from Egypt to Indonesia as far as Java with a large inset of the western Mediterranean Sea centered on Greece. In the upper right is an inset of the North Pole (Hyperborei) included by Ortelius to remind his readers that despite recent attempts, a passage to the Far East via the North Pole had not yet been found. To balance the composition Ortelius included an inset of Annonis Periplus in the upper left corner. This map represents the Northwest coast of Africa showing part of the explorations of the ancient King Hanno from Carthogo, who legend says was the first to sail around the continent of Africa to reach the Arabian sea. A very graphic and unusual map in fine full color with a fully stippled sea.

References: Van den Broecke #224.

Condition: A+

Beautiful impression and coloring on a full sheet with wide margins. Tiny spot in map, still fine.

Estimate: $700 - $900

Sold for: $650

Closed on 12/4/2002

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