Catalog Archive
Auction 155, Lot 56

"Americae sive Novi Orbis Nova Descriptio", Ortelius/Marchetti

Subject: Western Hemisphere - America

Period: 1598 (circa)

Publication: Il Theatro del Mondo

Color: Hand Color

Size:
4.3 x 3.2 inches
10.9 x 8.1 cm
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This fine miniature map is from the Italian version of Ortelius' pocket atlas published by Pietro Marchetti. The map is derived directly from the American map in the 1577 miniature atlas, which is a reduced version of the folio version of 1570. The characteristic bulges in the western coastlines of both continents and the huge southern continent are instantly recognizable, even though the coastline of South America had already been corrected in the folio version of this period. In North America, several mythical place names appear, including Norembega, Quivira, Tolonteac, Tigues, and Cevola (the 7 golden cities). Ornamented with two sailing ships and a delicate surround. Pietro Maria Marchetti produced the second pocket atlas based on Abraham Ortelius' folio Theatrum. It is often referred to as the plagiarized version of the Epitome. The copper plates are closely copied from those of Philip Galle's 1593 Italian edition. Italian text on verso.

References: Burden #126; King (2nd ed.) pp. 78-79.

Condition: B+

A slightly uneven impression with attractive color, a faint damp stain at top left, and minor soiling.

Estimate: $300 - $400

Sold for: $250

Closed on 11/18/2015

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