Catalog Archive
Auction 140, Lot 683

"Cypri Insulae Nova Descript", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Cyprus

Period: 1573 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.5 x 13.8 inches
49.5 x 35.1 cm
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This bold map of Cyprus is based on Giacomo Franco's map circa 1570. It is embellished with three sailing ships, a sea monster and three elaborate strapwork cartouches, one of which encloses an inset map of the Greek island of Lemnos. The map of Lemnos was drawn directly by Ortelius from a written account by the French naturalist and traveler, Pierre Belon (1553). Engraved by Jan van Deutecum. Dutch text on verso. First state, published in 1573.

References: Van den Broeke #149.1; Stylianou, pp. 60-62.

Condition: A

Lovely old color on watermarked paper with light damp stains in blank margins, barely entering map at bottom corners.

Estimate: $2,300 - $2,500

Sold for: $1,700

Closed on 5/23/2012

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