Catalog Archive
Auction 121, Lot 465

"Gemeine Beschreibung Aller Mittnaechtigen Laender, altz Schweden, Gothen, Norwegien, Denmarck &c.", Munster/Petri

Subject: Arctic and Northern Europe

Period: 1598 (published)

Publication: Cosmographia

Color: Black & White

Size:
14.3 x 12.2 inches
36.3 x 31 cm
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This attractive woodblock map is based on Ortelius' Septentrionalum of 1570, which in turn was based on the mapping of Nicholas Zeno in 1558. Petri had this woodblock cut in 1588, reverting to coverage of Munster's earlier, simpler map of Schonlandia. The map shows two Greenlands, one just above the other with the name of Groclandt, and the coast of Estotilandt (Newfoundland) is nearby. The imaginary islands of Frisland, Icaria, Podalida, and St. Brendain are shown, along with many other small, phantom islands in the North Sea. The North Pole carries a note of Pigmei hic habitandt, indicating that pygmies live there. Title is above the map. There is also a cartouche containing, "Schweden ist reich an Bergwerck Fischen…"

References: Burden #68.

Condition: C+

The map has been repaired by insetting pieces from another example to replace lost paper on either side of the centerfold, on Groenlandt and next to Pigmei hic habitandt. The repairs are sound and not obtrusive.

Estimate: $350 - $400

Sold for: $325

Closed on 9/26/2007

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