Catalog Archive
Auction 161, Lot 552

"Portugalliae que olim Lusitania, Novissima & Exactissima Descriptio, Auctore Vernando Alvaro Secco", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Portugal

Period: 1560 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.1 x 13.4 inches
51.1 x 34 cm
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This is one of the earliest and most beautiful maps of Portugal. It is oriented with north to the right and richly adorned with two large cartouches, sailing ships, and a very devilish-looking sea monster. The map is based on Fernando Alvarez Secco's map of 1560. The cartouche at bottom contains a dedication to Cardinal Camerlengo, Guido Ascanius Sfortia, from Secco that enumerates the great achievements of Portugal. This is from the original plate. Latin text on verso, published in 1570 or 1573.

References: Van den Broecke #26.

Condition: B+

On a watermarked sheet with light scattered foxing.

Estimate: $500 - $650

Sold for: $375

Closed on 2/8/2017

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