Rhetiae alpestris descriptio, in qua hodie Tirolis Comitatus. - Goritiae, Karstii, Chaczeolae, Carniolae, Histriae,...

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Original antique copper engraving, uncolored, from the 'Theatrum Orbis Terrarum' by Abraham Ortelius, the world's first modern atlas, published in Antwerp, 1573. Depicting Tyrol & Trentino, this map is a fine example of 1570s European cartography. Image: 340 by 500mm (13 by 19 inches). An attractive and historically significant 16th-century map for the discerning collector. Abraham Ortelius (1527–1598) was a Flemish cartographer and geographer, born in Antwerp. He is widely regarded as the creator of the first modern atlas, the 'Theatrum Orbis Terrarum' (Theatre of the World), first published in 1570 by Gilles Coppens de Diest in Antwerp. Considered the world's first true atlas, it established the modern format of uniform, standardized maps bound together in a single volume. Appointed Geographer to King Philip II of Spain in 1575, Ortelius was one of the most influential figures in the history of cartography. His maps are held in the collections of the British Library, the Library of Congress, and major European institutions. The 'Theatrum' went through more than 30 editions and was translated into multiple languages, making Ortelius's maps among the most sought-after in the world of antique cartography. Two maps on one double page plate, each one of them showing a title cartouche at the top centre. Villages and towns are shown as miniature views, as well mountains and rivers are shown. The both maps are engraved after Wolfgang Lazius. On the full sheet as published. The detailed map on the Duchy of Tirol, is mainly showing South Tirol with the area Innsbruck, Trient, the Lago de Garda towards Verona in the South. The other map is showing the area Carniola, Istria and the so called"Windisch Mark". A fine example from Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, Antwerp, sought after by collectors of antique maps of Italy, antique maps of Tyrol, and antique copper engraving, uncoloreds for sale. In good condition consistent with age. Light age-toning to the sheet, as expected for a 16th-century engraving. Centerfold as published.

Ortelius, Abraham – Tyrol & Trentino · Copper Engraving, Uncolored · Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, Antwerp · 1573

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