1626 The Turkish Empire
By: John Speed
Date: 1626 (Published) London
Dimensions: 15.5 x 20 inches (39.4 x 50.8 cm)
A spectacular example of John Speed's map of the Turkish Empire including much of what is now recognized the Middle East. Published during the reign of the Ottoman Empire, the verso features a comprehensive description of the Ottomans, their origins, history, traditions, and religion written in English.
The Ottoman Empire
The so-called Turkish Empire, which was, in fact, the Ottoman Empire, was one of the mightiest and longest-lasting dynasties in world history. This superpower ruled large areas of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and North Africa for more than 600 years. The head of state was a Sultan who had absolute religious and political authority over his people. Western Europeans generally viewed them as a threat, but many historians regard the Ottoman Empire as a source of great regional stability and security, and of important achievements in the arts, science, religion, and culture. The Ottomans allowed freedom of worship in occupied territories and generally governed with a loose rein, so long as taxes were paid when due.
The Mythological Christian Emperor Prester John
This fascinating map includes interesting commentary regarding the various peoples of the regions depicted. For example, reference is made to Prester John, the legendary Nestorian-Christian emperor or king-priest who, according to various reports, was supposed to have ruled in the far east beyond Persia and Armenia. In the bottom center portion of this map, John Speed references the mythological emperor as the ruler of the in Abyssines until they were 'later subdued by the Turks'.
Decorative Elements of the Map
Eight major cities, including Alexandria, Constantinople, and Jerusalem, are depicted in vignettes along the top of the map. Running down either side are vignettes portraying husbands and wives of different peoples, including Greeks, Egyptians, Assyrians, Arabians, and Persians, clothed in native raiment. Text inside a small cartouche states that the map is available in Fleet Street and in St. Paul’s Churchyard in London.
Condition: This map is in A condition with bold hand-coloring over a very strong plate impression on clean paper with full margins on all sides.
Inventory #12813
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