Catalog Archive
Auction 124, Lot 384

"Chili", Blaeu, Willem

Subject: Chile

Period: 1640 (circa)

Publication: Atlas Maior

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.7 x 14 inches
47.5 x 35.6 cm
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This striking map covers the known coastal region of Chile from approximately Antofagasta in the north to Cabo Gallegos in the south. The map is oriented with north to the left by two bold compass roses. The Andes are shown prominently, with two live volcanoes in the vicinity of Villarrica. Beyond the mountains, in what is now Argentina, is a large unnamed (and nonexistent) lake with the cities of Mendoza and San Juan - with San Juan incorrectly placed to the south of Mendoza. Otherwise, the map is surprisingly accurate for its age with many recognizable place names: La Serena, S. Iago (Santiago), Concepcion, Valdivia and the Gulf of Ancud are all located. It is beautifully adorned with three large cartouches, a scroll-style key, ships and sea monsters. Latin text on verso.

References:

Condition: A

Lovely original color on a strong sheet with wide original margins. Some very faint toning, still an excellent example.

Estimate: $600 - $700

Sold for: $450

Closed on 5/7/2008

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