Catalog Archive
Auction 103, Lot 8

"Nova Totius Terrarum Orbis Geographica ac Hydrographica Tabula", Merian, Matthaus

Subject: World

Period: 1646 (circa)

Publication: Neuwe Archontologia Cosmica

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14 x 9.8 inches
35.6 x 24.9 cm
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The cartography of this finely engraved map was closely copied from Blaeu's world map of 1606. Latin title at top, outside neatline, with German script title and notation concerning the discovering of the Americas in 1492, which covers the unknown interior of North America. There is a large southern continent connected to New Guinea, California is a peninsula and there are plenty of open ended waterways in the eastern part of North America, which leaves open the question of a Northwest Passage. Two polar projections in lower corners. The map is richly decorated with numerous sea monsters, galleons and compass roses.

References: Shirley #345.

Condition: B

Some uneven toning at center, else crisp. Top right corner torn, well away from map.

Estimate: $1,900 - $2,100

Sold for: $1,400

Closed on 6/11/2003

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