Subject: Cartographic Miscellany, Title Pages, Low Countries
Period: 1658 (circa)
Publication: De Bello Belgico
Color: Hand Color
Size:
5.3 x 7.2 inches
13.5 x 18.3 cm
Among the most interesting decorative works of cartography is a series of arresting maps showing The Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. This version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing east with the right paw raised and holding a shield. The map forms the title page for an edition of De Bello Belgico, a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence, written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome.
References: Tooley (MCC-7) #30.
Condition: B+
A nice impression, issued folding with a hint of soiling. A binding trim at right has been professionally replaced, and an adjacent 1.5" binding tear has been professionally repaired.