Catalog Archive
Auction 181, Lot 31

"Geographia Sacra", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Ancient World

Period: 1598 (dated)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.8 x 13.8 inches
47.8 x 35.1 cm
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This map is based on the nearly identical map of the same title by Ortelius. It depicts the world known to the ancients and is based on the Old and New Testament, following the translation of the Septuaginata. Inset into the map is a small (4 x 2.5") modern world map on an oval projection. The sheet is decorated with a cartouche flanked by geographers and a scale of miles with two cherubs. The cartouche contains text describing Ophir, the mythical land where Solomon got the gold to build his famous temple in Jerusalem. The world map shows the mythical Ophir in four possible locations; Southeast Asia, South Africa, the West Indies and South America. Italian text on verso, published in 1608.

References: Van den Broecke #179.

Condition: A

A dark impression on a sturdy sheet with a small coat of arms watermark, light printer's ink residue, and minor offsetting.

Estimate: $550 - $700

Sold for: $400

Closed on 2/10/2021

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