Catalog Archive
Auction 177, Lot 375

"Angliae Regni Florentissimi Nova Descriptio, Auctore Humfredo Lhuyd Denbygiense", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: England & Wales

Period: 1581 (published)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.6 x 14.9 inches
47.2 x 37.8 cm
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Stunning map of England and Wales compiled from Mercator's 1564 wall map of the British Isles and Lhuyd's manuscript map of 1568. The countryside is fully engraved with topographical features and hundreds of towns. This map improved on Mercator's outline of the countries particularly in Cardigan and South Wales, the Devon peninsula, and the Wash and Humber inlets. Interestingly the Caernarvon peninsula, near Lhuyd's hometown of Denbigh, is badly distorted and it has been suggested that this may be due to his sketching it from one of the nearby mountains. Sea monsters and five sailing ships occupy the stipple engraved oceans. A flock of sheep is shown in Ireland and there are two large, elaborate cartouches. This is the first state, with French text on verso.

References: Shirley (BI to 1650) #211; Van den Broecke #19.1.

Condition: A

A sharp impression with marginal soiling and a hint of toning.

Estimate: $700 - $850

Sold for: $500

Closed on 4/29/2020

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