Catalog Archive
Auction 147, Lot 619

"Imperium Sinicum Quindecupartitum", Kircher, Athanasius

Subject: China, Korea & Japan

Period: 1697 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.1 x 13.7 inches
46 x 34.8 cm
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This rare map of China and Korea is based on the work compiled by Jesuit Father Martino Martini. Father Martini's map was gathered from Chinese sources between 1643 and 1650, and it greatly advanced European knowledge of the region including the correct locations of many cities and topographical features. The trade route between Canton and Peking is noted and the Great Wall and the Gobi Desert are both graphically pictured. This is Kircher's second copperplate engraving, with more decorative cartouches and the same title.

References:

Condition: B+

Watermarked paper with attractive color, light soiling and a few spots of foxing. Professionally remargined at right and left with neatline at left expertly replaced in facsimile.

Estimate: $700 - $900

Sold for: $450

Closed on 11/20/2013

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