Catalog Archive
Auction 148, Lot 391

"America Meridionalis", Hondius/Bertius

Subject: South America

Period: 1618 (published)

Publication: Tabularum Geographicarum Contractarum…

Color: Black & White

Size:
5.2 x 3.8 inches
13.2 x 9.7 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

This handsome miniature map of South America still depicts numerous geographical myths. A massive Terra Australis is separated from the continent by the Strait of Magellan, with no mention of Tierra del Fuego. Within the continent, two mythical lakes appear: Eupana Lacus, which connects the Amazon River to the Parana River; and Parime Lacus (here not named), with the fabled golden city of Manoa on its northern shore. Handsomely embellished with two sailing ships, a sea monster, and a strapwork title cartouche. The majority of the maps for Bertius' geographical treatise were engraved by Jodocus Hondius Jr. after Mercator, although there is no attribution on this map. French text on verso.

References: King (2nd ed.) pp. 96-99; Koeman (Vol. III) #9800:342.

Condition: A

A fine impression on watermarked paper with two small stains in blank margins, not affecting map.

Estimate: $160 - $190

Sold for: $120

Closed on 2/19/2014

Archived