Catalog Archive
Auction 135, Lot 3

"Novus XVII. Inferioris Germaniae Provinciarum [Leo Belgicus]", Strada, Famiamo, S.J.

Subject: Title Pages - Belgium and Netherlands

Period: 1653 (circa)

Publication: De Bello Belgico

Color: Hand Color

Size:
5.2 x 7.2 inches
13.2 x 18.3 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 version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing east with the right paw raised and holding a shield. The map forms the title page for an edition of De Bello Belgico, a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence, written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome.

References: Tooley (MCC-7) #30.

Condition: A

Issued folded, now flattened with margins professionally extended to better accommodate framing.

Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300

Sold for: $1,300

Closed on 2/16/2011

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