Catalog Archive
Auction 120, Lot 84

"Mappa Fluxus et Refluxus Rationes in Isthmo Americano, in Freto Magellanico, caeterisque Americae Littoribus Exhibens", Kircher, Athanasius

Subject: Western Hemisphere

Period: 1682 (published)

Publication: d'Onder-Aardse Weereld

Color: Hand Color

Size:
16 x 13.4 inches
40.6 x 34 cm
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Very unusual map depicting all of South America and most of North America. The map is totally devoid of political detail with the exception that the floating city of Mexico is shown a bit too far north and California is named. Instead the map features the principal rivers, lakes, mountains and volcanoes in South America. A huge crater lake, probably Lake Titicaca although it is situated too far north, is depicted as the source of the Amazon. The Andes are shown as a range of live volcanoes. Three sailing ships and a strapwork title cartouche adorn the map. Kircher is credited with publishing the first book describing the ocean's currents and this map is a beautiful example of his representations that are surprisingly accurate. Published in a Dutch edition of Kircher's famous Subterranean World by Johann Waesberger.

References: Burden #382.

Condition: A

A very nice impression with professional and nearly invisible repair of the lower centerfold.

Estimate: $850 - $1,000

Sold for: $475

Closed on 7/18/2007

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