Aethiopia Superior vel Interior vulgo Abissinorum sibe Presbiteri Ioannis Imperium
Amsterdam: Willem Blaeu.
Map. Copper plate engraving with hand coloring. Decorative title cartouche. Image measures 15 1/4" x 19 3/4". Sheet measures 20 3/4 x 24 7/8".
Fascinating map of central Africa including the legendary fictitious kingdom of Prester John. Published circa 1600, the map depicts the region from Sudan to Mozambique. The map includes many illustrations of wildlife, including elephants, ostriches, and monkeys. Title cartouche features two figures with babies, and have been beautifully hand colored.
Willem Blaeu (1571-1638) was a prolific Dutch mapmaker who started one of the most famous map publishing firms of the 17th century. It was at this time that the Dutch controlled the map trade, and their ornate and beautiful maps had immense popularity. Blaeu was instrumental in driving this dominance in his lifetime, and this legacy was continued by his sons. Full original margins. Minor aging to edges and a few scattered chips and tears.
Binding: Unbound
Language: English
Price: $850.00
Item #302084