"Toonneel des Aerdriicx, oste Nieuwe Atlas, dat is Beschryving van Alle Landen...", Blaeu, (Family)

This beautiful and elaborate introduction page is filled with classical elements. Raised on a theatrical stage, the four women in center represent the continents (Asia, Europe, America and Africa from left to right). At the top center is a large armillary sphere flanked by Apollo with his lyre, Juno with the Milky Way flowing from her breasts, and geographers with their students perusing celestial and terrestrial globes. Around them are representations of the four elements: air, fire, earth and water. The title was printed onto the sheet using a separate plate.

References: Shirley (TP) #46; Van der Krogt (Vol. II) #2:01.

Condition: A

Old manuscript ink signature of a previous owner, with the date 1675, in top margin. Crease at center and marginal soiling, else very good.