Catalog Archive
Auction 102, Lot 80

"Mappa Fluxus et Refluxus Rationes in Isthmo Americano, in Freto Magellanico, caeterisque Americae Littoribus Exhibens", Kircher, Athanasius

Subject: Western Hemisphere

Period: 1665 (circa)

Publication: Mundus Subterraneus…

Color: Black & White

Size:
16 x 13.5 inches
40.6 x 34.3 cm
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Very unusual map depicting all of South America and most of North America. The map is totally devoid of political detail with the exception that the floating city of Mexico is shown a bit too far north and California is named. Instead the map features the principal rivers, lakes, mountains and volcanoes in South America. A huge crater lake, probably Lake Titicaca, is situated in the Andes and nearly that entire mountain range is shown as live volcanoes. Three sailing ships and a strapwork title cartouche adorn the map. Kircher is credited with publishing the first book describing the ocean's currents and this map is a beautiful example of his representations that are surprisingly fairly accurate.

References: Burden #382.

Condition: A

Very fine crisp impression. Two small tears in blank margins. Light overall toning slightly darker along fold.

Estimate: $650 - $750

Sold for: $700

Closed on 3/5/2003

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