Catalog Archive
Auction 89, Lot 36

"Vergilius vi Aeneidos…",

Subject: Cartographic Miscellany

Period: 1575 (circa)

Publication: Civitates Orbis Terrarum

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18.5 x 13 inches
47 x 33 cm
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This is a very unusual and interesting sheet, which defies classification. It consists of two views, one atop the other, and each surrounded in an elaborate strapwork framework which includes Latin text. The views show Abraham Ortelius and George Hoefnagle conducting surveys on a lake, which is surrounded by ancient ruins. The lower scene is quite bizarre in that there is a burning building and a human skeleton rising up out of the forest to attack the survey party with a large spear. One of the surveyors appears to be using a dog on a leash as some sort of depth measuring devise. Superb, old color.

References:

Condition: A

Estimate: $800 - $900

Sold for: $800

Closed on 12/8/1999

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