Catalog Archive
Auction 128, Lot 37

"Orbis Terrarum Tabula Recens Emendata et in Lucem Edita per N. Visscher", Visscher, Nicolas

Subject: World

Period: 1663 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.8 x 12.2 inches
47.8 x 31 cm
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First state of this superb double hemisphere world map surrounded by engravings including allegorical representations of the continents as well as native inhabitants and wildlife. Visscher's decorations were so popular several other cartographers copied them. Two diagrams depicting the Ptolemaic and Copernican theories of the solar system appear within the cusps of the hemispheres. The northwest coast of North America is greatly exaggerated with the fictional El Streto d'Anian, while California is shown as a peninsula. In the Pacific, Western Australia, Van Diemens Landt and a bit of New Zealand are also noted. Dutch text on verso.

References: Shirley #431; Poortman & Augusteijn #118.

Condition: A

Sharp impression printed on sturdy paper. The side margins, which are typically narrow with Dutch Bible maps, have been professionally and seamlessly extended to better accommodate framing. The lower centerfold separation has been repaired.

Estimate: $1,900 - $2,300

Sold for: $1,400

Closed on 5/20/2009

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