Catalog Archive
Auction 146, Lot 731

"Carte de l'Afrique", Bertius/Tavernier

Subject: Africa

Period: 1627 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.8 x 15.2 inches
50.3 x 38.6 cm
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Although the title cartouche credits Petrus Bertius, this map was created by Melchoir Tavernier, and was derived from Hondius' influential maps from 1619 and 1623 (as was Bertius' map from 1624, hence the attribution). The geography is typical for the 17th century and is filled with spurious rivers, mountains and kingdoms. The map is embellished with a variety of exotic animals in the interior, including elephants, ostriches, lions, and even a dragon. The seas are filled with ships, Neptune with his consort, flying fish, and sea monsters. This map was published by Tavernier as part of a set of the four continents.

References: Betz #63.

Condition: B+

Watermarked paper with light soiling, printer's ink residue, minor offsetting, and numerous minute worm holes, primarily at far left and right, only visible when held to light.

Estimate: $1,400 - $1,700

Sold for: $950

Closed on 9/4/2013

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