"[Leo Belgicus] Verduytscht door Guilliam van Aelst Den. I. Druck", Strada, Famiamo, S.J.

Among the most interesting decorative works of cartography is a series of arresting maps showing the Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. This wonderful, miniature version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original 1583 Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing right with the right paw raised and holding a shield. This version is beautifully engraved with a stippled sea filled with a ship, a sea monster and a compass rose. The De Bello Belgico, written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome, was a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence.

References: Tooley (MCC-7) #21.

Condition: B

Backed with tissue to repair small tears, chips and worm holes, several of which just enter image at left and right. Marginal soiling.