Blaeu, G. Nova Totius Terrarum Orbis Geographica Ac Hydrographica Tabulac. Amsterdam, c. 1635. Handcolored, 16 1/8 x 21½", matted to 25 x 36¾". Shirley describes this world map as a "classic single-sheet world map on Mercator's projection… celebrated as one of the supreme examples of the map maker's art." Signed by engraver Josua van den Ende in the lower right corner. Lovely border decorations include allegorical depictions of the sun and the moon and the known five planets - Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn--along the top. Down the left side are four panels illustrating the elements (Fire, Water, Air and Earth), and on the right side are the four seasons. Along the bottom are seven vignettes showing the seven ancient wonders of the world: the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Colossus over the harbour at Rhodos, the Pyramids, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus at Caria, the Temple of Diane, the Statue of Jupiter, and the conical lighthouse of Alexandria. (R. Shirley, The Mapping of the World, Entry 255). Decorative cartouches for the title, dedication and explanation, two spheres for the north and south poles, compass roses and numerous ships and sea monsters. This exceptionally beautifully map appeared in the Blaeu Atlas from 1630 until 1658.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 8,000.
The Hunter Collection of Antique Maps
