Catalog Archive
Auction 123, Lot 5

"De Bello Belgico Decas il Famiani Stradae Rom. Soc. Iesu", Strada, Famiamo, S.J.

Subject: Title Pages

Period: 1648 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
3.5 x 6 inches
8.9 x 15.2 cm
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Among the most interesting decorative works of cartography is a series of arresting maps showing The Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. This wonderful, miniature version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original 1583 Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing right with the right paw raised and holding a shield. This version is beautifully engraved with a stippled sea filled with ships, a sea monster and a compass rose. The De Bello Belgico, written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome, was a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence.

References: Tooley (MCC-7) #25.

Condition: A

Estimate: $950 - $1,100

Sold for: $1,200

Closed on 2/20/2008

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