"Cumnecdum Stella haec Exorta…", Scherer, Heinrich

This interesting frontispiece introduced part III of Scherer's Atlas Novus. The unique engraving illustrates the northern celestial sky with the constellations of the zodiac surrounding a terrestrial map presented on a north polar projection. On the map California is shown as an island and a Northwest Passage appears to be possible. In the foreground is a crowned lion holding both a sword and shepherd's staff with a putti holding the pope's mitre. Above the world an angel shines a light on Asia and the Americas. Drawn by Johannes Degler and engraved by Joseph a Montalegre. Heinrich Scherer, professor of mathematics at Munich, was a devout Jesuit whose work emphasized the Catholic hierarchy and the spread of Jesuit missions throughout the world.

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Condition: A

Sharp impression with a bit of toning in the blank margins.