Catalog Archive
Auction 141, Lot 15

One of the First Thematic World Maps

"Designatio Orbis Christiani", Mercator/Hondius

Subject: World

Period: 1609 (published)

Publication: Atlas Minor

Color: Hand Color

Size:
7.3 x 5.8 inches
18.5 x 14.7 cm
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This is one of the first thematic maps, and it is the second world map in the Mercator-Hondius Atlas Minor. It is on a planispherical projection and uses symbols (identified in the key at bottom) to designate those areas of the world that are Christian (cross), Muslim (crescent), and idolaters (arrow). This is from the only German edition of Hondius' Atlas Minor, with German text on verso.

References: Shirley #260.

Condition: A

Marginal soiling and faint text show-through.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $300

Closed on 9/5/2012

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