"Asiae Nova Descriptio", Ortelius, Abraham

This is the second, re-engraved map of Asia to appear in the Theatrum from 1575 onwards. It is based on Ortelius' own wall map of Asia (1567), which was in turn based on the work of Gastaldi and various other sources. It was the standard map of Asia for more than forty years. The cordiform projection shows Asia extended too far to the east, an error propagated with Ptolemy. Japan is in the manner of Ruscelli from Jesuit sources. Luzon is absent from the Philippines and the mythical lake Cayamay Lacus is located in southern China. There are a great number of islands in the East Indies, but not well placed, due to the secrecy of voyages to the region. Large strapwork title cartouche. Latin text on verso, published between 1579-1603.

References: Van den Broecke #7; Walter #11-C; Yeo #5.

Condition: B

A nice impression with light soiling, a small abrasion along centerfold at bottom, and two short tears along the centerfold at top that have been closed on verso with archival tape. Trimmed to neatline on all sides.