"[Monsters] Meerwunder und Seltzame Thier wie die in den Mitnachtigen Landern im Meer und auff dem Landtgefunden Werden", Munster, Sebastian

One of the more fanciful cartographic curiosities and a unique view of Renaissance attitudes toward the unknown lands beyond the civilized world. This woodblock illustration presents a compendium of monsters as known in the sixteenth century. Across the top is a panel showing land-based creatures. But the majority of the 'monsters' are ferocious sea creatures shown devouring hapless sailors and wrecking ships. German text on verso with several small woodcut illustrations of the Arctic.

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Condition: A

Overall very good with a slightly weak impression at center. Short tear on top fold in the blank margin.