Catalog Archive
Auction 113, Lot 382

"Europa recens descripta", Blaeu, Willem

Subject: Europe

Period: 1633 (published)

Publication: Wahrhafftige Beschreibung all denckwurdigsten Geschichten…

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18 x 14 inches
45.7 x 35.6 cm
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This is an uncommon variant of one of the most famous 17th Century maps of the continent of Europe. The map extends to include Iceland and the mythical island of Frisland. The map first appeared with a carte-a-figures border. This example, without the decorative borders, is from a Dutch history book by Emmanuel van Meteren and printed by Blaeu. Even without the famous borders, this is a decorative map embellished with sailing ships, sea monsters, lions, bears and Neptune riding a dolphin and holding his trident.

References:

Condition: A

Bit of light soil and creases in right corners, else very good.

Estimate: $1,200 - $1,500

Sold for: $1,300

Closed on 12/7/2005

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