Catalog Archive
Auction 156, Lot 507

NO RESERVE

"Regno di Portogallo", Coronelli, Vincenzo Maria

Subject: Portugal

Period: 1691 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
23.7 x 17.5 inches
60.2 x 44.5 cm
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This stunning map of Portugal is a fine example of the mapmaker's art. Vincenzo Coronelli was a Franciscan priest and renowned mathematician and cartographer. He was appointed official cosmographer to the Venetian Republic in 1685 and founded the world's earliest geographic society, L'Accademia Cosmografica degli Argonauti. He was also appointed Map-maker Royal to Louis XIV, which gave him access to the latest French manuscript records that he was able to incorporate into his printed maps. Oriented with west at the top (and north incorrectly pointing south on the compass rose), this boldly engraved map is filled with detail of the cities, villages, mountains, forests, and rivers. The huge cartouche at bottom is embellished with military flags and cannons. The distance scale cartouche and the arms of Portugal and Algarve are supported by mermen in the Atlantic and four smaller crests represent the adjacent regions of Spain. On verso is a depiction of the fortified city of Lisbon surrounded by Italian text.

References:

Condition: B+

Light toning along the centerfold with light show-through of text and engraving on verso. There is a narrow bottom margin, apparently as issued.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $240

Closed on 2/17/2016

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