"Roma Gentium Domina", Briet, Philippe

This handsome and uncommon map of the Roman Empire shows most of Europe, northern Africa, and part of the Middle East. It is filled with ancient place names and political boundaries. The large inset focuses on the region surrounding Rome, the birthplace of the Empire. The map is embellished with a banner-style title cartouche, a strapwork cartouche, a sailing ship, and a sea monster. Engraved by H. le Roy and printed by Michel van Lochom.

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Condition: B+

A dark impression with contemporary outline color in the map and later color in the decorative elements, on a bright sheet with the watermarks of a large coat of arms and the symbol for the Society of Jesus. There is light toning and foxing along the centerfold, and a few dampstains along the edges of the sheet.