A. The Art of the Map - An Illustrated History of Map Elements and Embellishments, by Dennis Reinhartz, published 2012, printed color (9.5 x 10.3"). This reference by Dennis Reinhartz is the first book-length study to specifically focus on the decorative elements in maps. Reinhartz is professor emeritus of the University of Texas at Arlington, former president of the Society for the History of Discoveries and the Texas Map Society, and author of The Cartographer and the Literati: Herman Moll and His Intellectual Circle, among other achievements. As one might expect given its subject matter, the book is very handsomely produced and filled with illustrations. 219 pages. Hardbound with gilt title on spine and an illustrated dust jacket. Condition: Contents are near fine with a crease on front endpapers. Covers have a hint of soiling and corners are slightly bumped. (A)

B. Sea Monsters on Medieval and Renaissance Maps, by Chet Van Duzer, published 2013, printed color (8.9 x 9.8"). This remarkable study dives deep into the sea monsters that appeared on European maps from themappaemundi published in the 10th century to 16th-century works by Ortelius and De Jode. Van Duzer's approach is scholarly and approachable. It is difficult to imagine a better book on the subject. Illustrated throughout with 115 color images. Published by the British Library. 144 pages. Hardbound in blue cloth with an illustrated dust jacket. Condition: Corners are slightly bumped, otherwise near fine. (A)

C. Dictionary of Subjects & Symbols in Art - Revised Edition, by James Hall, published 1974, black & white (6.0 x 9.0"). Map collectors may find this reference useful in deciphering the decorative elements on maps. It provides an alphabetical listing of common subjects and symbols, mostly dealing with Christian or classical themes. Introduction by Kenneth Clark, of Civilisation fame. Published by Icon Editions. 349 pages. Soft illustrated covers. Condition: There is highlighting in the text and minor wear to the covers. (B+)

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Condition:

See description above.