Catalog Archive
Auction 98, Lot 5

"Orbis Descriptio", Ruscelli, Girolamo

Subject: World

Period: 1564 (published)

Publication: La Geografia di Claudio Tolomeo

Color: Black & White

Size:
10 x 7 inches
25.4 x 17.8 cm
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This important map is the first double hemisphere world map to appear in atlas form. It is elegantly engraved in the characteristic Italian style and adapted from the oval projection used for Gastaldi's larger world map. Terra Incognita is distinctly shown as a land bridge linking Asia and North America with its coastline labeled Littus incognitum. There is no southern continent. First state.

References: Shirley #110; Manasek #20.

Condition: A

Fine impression with minor printer's smudging, as is common with Ruscelli's maps. Small bit of paper replaced in margin, well away from platemark.

Estimate: $950 - $1,000

Sold for: $1,800

Closed on 3/6/2002

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