Catalog Archive
Auction 114, Lot 614

"Sumatra ein grosse Insel so von den alten Geographen Taprobana ist genent worden", Munster, Sebastian

Subject: Sri Lanka

Period: 1578 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
13.5 x 10 inches
34.3 x 25.4 cm
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Map of island of Taprobana, which was variously thought to be Ceylon or Sumatra. This map depicts Ceylon with the typical misconceptions of Ptolemy showing a small part of India incorrectly in the northeast corner of the map. The most interesting feature of the map is the large engraving of an elephant beneath a tree that was copied from Gastaldi. The elephant is shown with large padded feet and a scoop on the end of its trunk.

References:

Condition: B

Nice impression. Toned with a couple of wormholes along centerfold.

Estimate: $325 - $375

Sold for: $240

Closed on 3/1/2006

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