"Russiae, Moscoviae et Tartariae Descriptio…", Ortelius, Abraham
Subject: Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia
Period: 1570 (circa)
Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum
Color: Hand Color
Size:
17.5 x 14 inches
44.5 x 35.6 cm
Fascinating map of Russia and the former Soviet republics from the surveys of the English merchant and adventurer, Anthony Jenkinson, in 1562. Jenkinson was leader of the Muscovy Company's first expedition to Russia and the first European to travel widely throughout the region. Ortelius' map replicates much of the detail and decoration found on the original Jenkinson map complete with extensive notations, illustrations of Cossacks, camels, encampments, armies, and a curious burial scene where the dead are hung from trees. A vignette of Ivan the Terrible appears at top left. Latin text on verso, published between 1570-73.
References: Van den Broecke #162.
Condition: B+
Wide margins on watermarked paper with light toning and a few faint spots of foxing. A short centerfold separation that enters 1/4" into map image at bottom has been closed on verso with Japanese tissue. Remnants of hinge tape on verso.
