Catalog Archive
Auction 117, Lot 697

"[Map of the Eastern Mediterranean]", Sanudo/Vesconte

Subject: Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East and Egypt

Period: 1611 (published)

Publication: Liber Secretorum Fidelium Crucis

Color: Black & White

Size:
14.8 x 6.2 inches
37.6 x 15.7 cm
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Oriented with north to the left, this scarce map of the Eastern Mediterranean region extends throughout the Middle East and Egypt. Cyprus and the Levantine coasts are clearly detailed with particular attention to the Crusader fortresses. Mecca (Mecha) is misplaced on the Sinai Peninsula.

Marino Sanudo was a Venetian statesman and geographer in the 14th century. He is best known for his life-long attempts to revive the Crusades. His great work the Secreta (or Liber Secretorum Fidelium Crucis) was written in manuscript and presented to popes and kings in an attempt to persuade them to launch another series of crusades. Through its accompanying maps and plans, which were the work of the great sea-chart maker Petrus Vesconte, it occupies an important place in the development of cartography. The Secreta was only printed once and published with Bongars Gesta Dei per Francos, by Wechelius in 1611.

References: Mickwitz & Miekkavaara (Nordenskiold III) #346-II-3.

Condition: B

A few foxing spots and some creasing along fold.

Estimate: $600 - $700

Sold for: $800

Closed on 12/6/2006

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