Catalog Archive
Auction 137, Lot 717

"Asiae Nova Descriptio", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Asia

Period: 1575 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19 x 14.5 inches
48.3 x 36.8 cm
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Ortelius' great map of Asia was based on his wall map of 1567, which was in turn based on the work of Gastaldi and various other sources. This map was the standard map of Asia for more than forty years. The cordiform projection shows Asia extended too far to the east, an error propagated with Ptolemy. Japan is in a 'kite' form taken from Jesuit sources. Luzon is absent from the Philippines and the mythical lake Cayamay lacus is located in southern China. There are a great number of islands in the East Indies, but not well placed, due to the secrecy of voyages to the region. The title is emblazoned onto a large strapwork cartouche. This is the second, re-engraved plate that was published from 1575 onwards. Latin text on verso.

References: Van den Broecke #7; Walter #11-C; Yeo #5.

Condition: B

Faint damp stains in upper corners, with a centerfold separation in bottom blank margin that has been closed on verso with old paper. There is light toning and soiling in blank margins. Remnants of framing tape on verso.

Estimate: $2,000 - $2,400

Sold for: $1,500

Closed on 9/14/2011

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