Catalog Archive
Auction 157, Lot 742

NO RESERVE

"Supplement a l'Atlas Historique, Contenant Diverses Pieces de Chronologie, de Genealogie, d'Histoire et d'Autres Sciences...Tome VII...", Chatelaine, Zacherie

Subject: Atlases

Period: 1732 (published)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
11.6 x 18.4 inches
29.5 x 46.7 cm
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This complete volume contains two title pages, frontispiece, preface, table of contents, and 43 fold-out maps and tables. Nineteen of the engravings are printed on two joined sheets. There are three full page maps including two showing the extent of the Roman Empire and a third depicting Europe and the Mediterranean. In addition to the maps, the atlas is filled with genealogical charts (many of which include small maps), coats of arms, views of castles, a chart on fortifications, ship building, and other historical information.

The volume is presented with an elaborate frontispiece by Bernard Picart. It shows classical muses representing: Geography, using measuring dividers on a map; Navigation, with a crown of ships' bows and holding an oar; Chronology, holding a genealogical chart; and winged History writing the Atlas Historique. The muses surround Atlas who supports the large globe at center. Above them it appears that Father Time is carrying a woman to heaven where a pantheon of ancient gods awaits in the clouds.

Small elephant folio, full leather, with raised bands and gilt decoration on spine. 112 pp.

References: Phillips (A) #579.

Condition: B+

Overall the maps and tables are in very good to near fine condition with occasional faint offsetting, light damp staining, and just a few short fold separations. Two genealogical sheets (#23 and #24) have minor loss along the right edge of the sheet impacting a few coats of arms. Covers are moderately worn and stained with the leather starting to separate from the back cover at bottom. Spine is slightly chipped at head and tail, and joint is cracked.

Estimate: $1,200 - $1,600

Unsold

Closed on 5/4/2016

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