Catalog Archive
Auction 140, Lot 12

Ritter's Unusual Sun-Dial World Map

"[Untitled - World and Horological Diagrams]", Ritter, Franz

Subject: World

Period: 1607 (published)

Publication: Speculum Solis…

Color: Black & White

Size:
13.3 x 11 inches
33.8 x 27.9 cm
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A rare and extremely unusual map shows the world projected from the North Pole as if it were the table of a sundial. The landmasses are drawn to scale in proportion to their distance from the pole. The result is a very distorted, though mathematically correct, projection. Ten horological diagrams surround the central map and all are enclosed in a decorative border. The plate was designed for Ritter's first edition of the Speculum Solis in 1607, and is a synopsis of all the plates that appear in his later editions.

References: cf Shirley #270.

Condition: A

Watermarked paper with a few minute tears that have been professionally closed on verso. Also professionally remargined.

Estimate: $3,000 - $4,000

Sold for: $2,200

Closed on 5/23/2012

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