1720 Descriptio Orbis Antiqui in XLIV. Tabulis exhibita
By: Christoph Weigel
Date: 1720 (published) Nuremberg
Dimensions: 14.25 x 10 inches (36 x 25.5 cm)
This is a very fine example of Christoph Weigel's first edition atlas of the ancient world published out of Nuremberg in 1720. The work focuses on the Eastern Hemisphere alone with special attention paid to the lands occupied by the Greek and Roman Empires.
The atlas consist of forty-four maps in total, which includes city plans of Rome, Athens, and Jerusalem as well as the twelve tribes Israelites camped around the Tabernacle, housing the Ark of the Covenant. Each map was expertly engraved and skillfully colored by hand, many with an emphasis on decorative title cartouches that are adorned with elements numismatics in the form of coins and medallions representative of the region and its rich classical history. The title page features the a statue of the titan Atlas of Greek mythology, holding the world atop his shoulders, flanked by twenty medallions representing countries and regions of ancient world.
This particular example bears a few manuscript annotations within the first few pages from previous owners. One such annotation notes prior ownership by Josephi Limprens, 1858. As with the previous owners, this atlas would serve as an enjoyable study piece for anyone with interest in the ancient world and classical numismatics.
Condition: This atlas is in B+ condition with original marble cover boards and spine showing signs of wear, but fully intact. Several of the maps within show sign of damp staining, and light foxing, mostly confined to the margins. All things considered, the atlas and the maps within present beautifully.
Inventory #12259
1200 W. 35th Street #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622