Catalog Archive
Auction 149, Lot 584

Rare Carte-a-Figures Map of the Middle East

"The Turkish Empire. Newly Augmented", Speed, John

Subject: Middle East

Period: 1626 (dated)

Publication: A Prospect of the Most Famous Parts of the World

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.3 x 15.5 inches
51.6 x 39.4 cm
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This splendid carte-de-figures map covers the region from Greece across the Middle East to include Persia and Arabia, the Black and Caspian Seas, and the Red Sea. Based on Hondius' map of the region, the interior is fully engraved with mountains, deserts, and numerous towns and villages. The Persian Gulf is labeled the Sea Elcatif sometimes the Arabian Gulfe. Included along the top are eight bird's-eye views of important cities including Damascus, Jerusalem, Constantinople, Rhode, Alexandria, Ormus and Famagusta. Along each side are five full portraits of Greek, Egyptian, Assyrian, Arabian, and Persian men on the left and their wives on the right. With numerous annotations in blank areas giving historical and geographical details. This edition has the imprint of George Humble, published between 1627-32. The English text on verso provides a fascinating contemporary description of the region. The spectacular title cartouche features the crescent moon and a crown.

References: Potter (Antique Maps) pg. 119; Ankary #42; Tibbetts #77; Shirley (BL Atlases) T.SPE-2a #18.

Condition: B+

A nice impression on watermarked paper with good margins and two tiny worm holes in top border. There are professional repairs to several short centerfold separations and a small hole adjacent to centerfold at bottom, with a minor amount of image in facsimile. Expertly remargined at top to accommodate framing.

Estimate: $2,750 - $3,500

Sold for: $2,300

Closed on 5/21/2014

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