Catalog Archive
Auction 183, Lot 321

Ortelius' Earliest Map of Britain

"Angliae, Scotiae, et Hiberniae, sive Britannicar: Insularum Descriptio", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Britain

Period: 1587 (published)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.7 x 13.6 inches
50 x 34.5 cm
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This map, based on the cartography of Gerard Mercator, is Ortelius' earliest map of Britain. Flemish influence, or possibly a mistranslation, is evident in the rendering of some of the place names, e.g. Ormyskyrk for Ormskirk, Dantre for Daventry, and the omission of the relatively important Peterborough. Distinguished by a sophisticated style of engraving, the map is embellished with two ornate strapwork cartouches, the royal coat of arms of the UK, dividers and distance scale and five sailing ships. French text on verso with page 9 at bottom.

References: Shirley (MCC-94) #86, pl. 42; Van den Broecke #16.

Condition: B+

Watermarked paper with light toning, marginal soiling, and a couple of minute worm holes only visible when held to light. A centerfold separation that enters 2" into map at bottom and a short tear in the bottom blank margin have both been closed on verso with old paper.

Estimate: $700 - $850

Sold for: $500

Closed on 6/9/2021

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