Catalog Archive
Auction 142, Lot 1

"Spectandum Dedit Ortelius Mortalib. Orbem, Orbi Spectandum Galleus Ortelium", Ortelius/Galle

Subject: Portrait

Period: 1579 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Black & White

Size:
8.5 x 12.8 inches
21.6 x 32.5 cm
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This famous portrait of Ortelius, at the age of about 50, was engraved by Philippe Galle and appeared in the Theatrum from 1579 onwards. Few other portraits of the great cartographer have survived. The Latin title translation is, "By looking, Ortelius gave to mortal beings the world, by looking at his face, Galleus gave them Ortelius." The portrait is surrounded in a strapwork and garland frame.

References:

Condition: A

Watermarked paper with light soiling and a damp stain confined to blank margins.

Estimate: $275 - $350

Sold for: $210

Closed on 11/28/2012

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