"Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, sive Atlas Novus, in quo Tabulae et Descriptiones Omnium Regionum", Blaeu, (Family)

This beautiful and elaborate introduction page is filled with classical elements. Raised on a theatrical stage, the four women in center represent the continents (Asia, Europe, America and Africa from left to right). At the top center is a large armillary sphere flanked by Apollo with his lyre, Juno with the Milky Way flowing from her breasts, and geographers with their students perusing celestial and terrestrial globes. Around them are representations of the four elements: air, fire, earth and water.

References: Shirley (TP) #46.

Condition: B+

Watermarked paper with a light damp stain at top, minor soiling, and professional repairs to a few tears and chips confined to blank margins.