Catalog Archive
Auction 207, Lot 685
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Full Contemporary Color

"Spectandum Dedit Ortelius Mortalib. Orbem, Orbi Spectandum Galleus Ortelium", Ortelius, Abraham

Subject: Frontispiece, Portrait

Period: 1579 (circa)

Publication: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
8.3 x 12.7 inches
21.1 x 32.3 cm
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This famous portrait of Ortelius, at the age of about 50, was engraved by Philippe Galle and appeared in the Theatrum from 1579 onwards. Few other portraits of the great cartographer have survived. The Latin title translation is, "By looking, Ortelius gave to mortal beings the world, by looking at his face, Galleus gave them Ortelius." The portrait is surrounded in a strapwork and garland frame. Latin text on verso.

References:

Condition: A

A sharp impression with full contemporary color, a soft horizontal crease, and marginal soiling.

Estimate: $475 - $600

Unsold

Closed on 2/11/2026

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