Catalog Archive
Auction 171, Lot 581

"Tabula Catadupam Velini Fluminis et Montem Aeolium Caesianorum Situmq Circum Adjacentium Locorum Exhibens", Kircher, Athanasius

Subject: Central Italy

Period: 1682 (published)

Publication: D'Onder-Aardse Weereld

Color: Hand Color

Size:
7.5 x 5.6 inches
19.1 x 14.2 cm
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This unusual map centers on Terni in central Italy, and features a spectacular waterfall and Lago di Piediluco. This is from Kircher's masterpiece, an immense and amazing work covering all aspects of anything that dwelled or occurred within the earth's interior - from dragons, to fossils, to mountain springs, earthquakes, and volcanoes. Kircher's work was the first serious effort to describe the physical makeup of the earth, proposing theories (sometimes fantastic) in the areas of physics, geography, geology, and chemistry. He suggested the existence of a vast network of underground springs and reservoirs, as well as the theory that subterranean temperatures increase directly in proportion to depth. Published in a Dutch edition of Kircher's famous Subterranean World. On a sheet of Dutch text measuring 9.3 x 14.8".

References:

Condition: A

A crisp impression with minor toning and light mildew stains along the edges of the sheet.

Estimate: $120 - $150

Sold for: $90

Closed on 2/6/2019

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