Catalog Archive
Auction 137, Lot 8

"Theatri Europae I…", Merian, Matthaus

Subject: Title Pages

Period: 1672-79 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
7 x 11.5 inches
17.8 x 29.2 cm
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Matthaus Merian's 21 volume history of Europe was published over an incredible 103-year span from 1635 to 1738. The title pages and frontispieces symbolized the ravages of war and the costs of victory. This title page followed in the wake of the Franco-Dutch War, which ended with the Treaty of Nijmegen of 1678. To the left and right are the figures of Honor and Bellona, the Roman goddess of War, comforting a wounded persona of the nation. Above them putti rejoice in front of the sun of Peace.

References: Shirley (TP) #43A.

Condition: A+

Estimate: $200 - $240

Sold for: $150

Closed on 9/14/2011

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