Catalog Archive
Auction 128, Lot 991

"[Lot of 2] Cartografia y Cronicas de la Antigua California [and] A Navigator's Universe The <I>Libro de Cosmographia</I> of 1538 by Pedro de Medina",

Subject: Reference Books

Period: 1972-89 (published)

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1) Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Fundacion de Investigaciones Sociales, 1989. Hardcover. 1st Edition. FN/FN- DJ/FN-Slipcase, HB, Folio, 207 pgs. Text in Spanish. Wonderful production covering the cartographic history of the lands associated with old or lower California in all their historical contexts, with 45 color plates of antiquarian maps reproduced, many as foldouts. Chapters on Cortesian explorations as well as those of Jesuits throughout 17th and 18th centuries. Over 45 colored maps. (9.5 x 13.5") Book contents and dust Jacket are fine, front cover is split from end papers (B+).

2) Translated and with an introduction by Ursula Lamb, Chicago, 1972. 224 pages. Includes 123-page facsimile. (8.8 x 10.8") Medina was a leading cosmographer of sixteenth century Spain. The full text of his manuscript Libro de cosmographia, written in a concise gothic hand, is reproduced here. It presents a lively discussion with a pilot and student asking Medina questions with his direct answers. The text reveals the cosmographical problems confronting the pre-Copernican cosmographer. Book is fine, dust jacket clean with no flaws save an area at lower front with tears and creasing (A).

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Estimate: $120 - $180

Sold for: $75

Closed on 5/20/2009

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