Catalog Archive
Auction 114, Lot 636

"Nova descriptio Africae", Merian, Matthaus

Subject: Africa

Period: 1683 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14.2 x 10.5 inches
36.1 x 26.7 cm
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Fine decorative map of the continent based on the cartography of Blaeu. The map is embellished with numerous ships, sea monsters (including a great sea-horse), a compass rose and exotic animals wandering all over the continent. The Nile is depicted according to Ptolemy with its sources in two large lakes below the Equator, as well as other fictitious details.

References: Norwich #33.

Condition: A

Bit of minor surface soil, still very good.

Estimate: $700 - $800

Sold for: $750

Closed on 3/1/2006

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