"[Monsters] Monstra marina & terrestria, quae passim in partibus aqualonis inueniuntur", Munster, Sebastian

One of the more fanciful cartographic curiosities that defines a unique view of Renaissance attitudes toward the unknown lands beyond the civilized world. This woodblock illustration presents a compendium of monsters as known in the sixteenth century. Across the top is a panel showing land-based creatures, but the majority of the "monsters" are ferocious sea creatures shown devouring hapless sailors and wrecking ships. Latin text on verso.

References: Manasek, p. 118.

Condition: A

This is a sharp, early impression, which is unusual for this plate. Small tear in left-hand blank margin closed on verso with paper.