Macedonia Epirus et Achaia
Amsterdam: Jodocus Hondius, 1633.
Map. Copper plate engraving with original hand coloring. Published in Amsterdam, 1633. Image measures 14" x 17", sheet measures 17 7/8" x 22 5/8"
Beautiful 17th century map of Macedonia with parts of Albania and northern Greece. The water is engraved with the signature moire effect detail to mimic ocean waves, and a decorative title cartouche features a skull. Divided by region with hand colored outline, towns, cities, rivers, and topographical features are labeled. Mountains are depicted pictorially. In excellent condition, clean with full original margins (minor chips at corners, and one small closed tear to lower edge near centerfold).
Gerard Mercator (1512-1594) was an accomplished mathematician, cartographer, globe maker and engraver but is best known for the Mercator Projection. Incorporating the newly accepted fact that the world is round, Mercator was able to render longitude lines consistently straight on a chart. Although this requires some distortion, it was of great use for navigators, and is historically important, as it is still the most commonly used projection today. Originally created by Mercator, this plate was issued after his death by the prominent engraver and instrument-maker Jodocus Hondius (1563-1612), who republished Mercator's work in many languages and editions. When Jodocus the elder died in 1612, his wife Colette ran the business until their sons came of age to join the firm. Although their partnership was only indirect, Mercator and Hondius are one of the most significant pairs in the history of mapmaking. Binding: Unbound
Language: English
Price: $350.00
Item #329054