1570-75 Palestinae sive totius Terrae Promissionis, Nova Descriptio
By: Abraham Ortelius
Date: 1570-75 (published) Antwerp
Dimensions: 14 x 18.5 inches (35.5 x 47 cm)
An original color example of the first map Abraham Ortelius published of the Holy Land. Appearing in one of the earliest editions of Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, this map presents the region as it was known in the late 16th century, based on a work by Tilleman Stella.
This remarkable work offers so exciting decorative and cartographic features. The map relays both biblical and modern geography and set the precedent for maps of the Holy Land for the next three centuries. As previously stated this map is the path taken by the Israelites from Ramses, across the Red Sea, past mount Sinai to Jericho. Numbers along the path indicate the nights spent to complete the journey. Biblical sites are depicted and the region is divided into the lands of the Twelve Tribes, Judeae and Samaria.
The decorative elements of this map are some of the finest examples of Renaissance tradition, with elegant lettering, Ortelius's iconic depiction of ocean waves, the sailing ships, flute playing-satyrs, and some of the most unusual sea monsters the 16th had to offer. In the title cartouche at top left, Ortelius pays tribute to the promised land with all its goodness and holiness by quoting (in Latin) one of the most famous passages relating to the Holy Land.
Abraham Ortelius; the Father of Modern Cartography
The publication of Theatrum Orbis Terrarum of 'Theatre of the World,' marked an epoch in the history of cartography, for it is the first uniform and systematic collection of maps of the entire known world, based on contemporary knowledge since the days of Claudius Ptolemy (c. 100 – c. 170 AD). The 16th century brought about a dramatic increase in interest in maps and charts, and Ortelius, as a businessman with a passion for history and cartography, was at the forefront in meeting this demand. A true visionary, Ortelius became the first to publish what is referred to as a "modern atlas."
Through his collecting and his antiques business, Ortelius was able to research contemporary maps, becoming one of the greatest experts of his day. He based his work on the best maps available, drawing them himself with the plates done by Franz Hogenberg. Unlike other atlas makers, Ortelius cited the authors of the original maps from which he compiled his work. In this case, the map was based on the work of the prolific Tilleman Stella.
Thus, it is not only for his unprecedented achievement in issuing the first modern atlas, but also for his thoughtful and rigorous methodology, that Ortelius belongs amongst the first rank of cartographers. He is very aptly regarded as the father of modern cartography.
Condition: This map is in B condition with full, original hand color and margins on all sides. There are old pin-holes, folds and short tears, mostly confined to the margins, two of which (at left and the lower centerfold) extend into the map image. Map has been professionally conserved with a thin archival paper on the verso.
Inventory #12274
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