Catalog Archive
Auction 145, Lot 498

"Namurcum, Comitatus", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Southern Belgium

Period: 1579 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Black & White

Size:
20.2 x 15.3 inches
51.3 x 38.9 cm
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This fine map centered on Namur is richly embellished with forests, cities, mountains. This map is based on a manuscript map drawn by Jacques Surhon in 1555, which was suppressed for security reasons. In 1579, when Antwerp became independent for a brief period of time, Ortelius was able to use the manuscript map to create this copper plate. The map is adorned with an elaborate strapwork title cartouche, a compass rose, and a secondary cartouche containing the coat of arms of the region and the privilege imprint. This is the first state. French text on verso, published in 1598.

References: Van den Broecke #68.

Condition: B

A dark impression on watermarked paper with wide, original margins and all edges gilt. There are several large damp stains in image.

Estimate: $180 - $220

Unsold

Closed on 6/12/2013

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