BELGIUM

AUTHOR:

ORTELIUS, ABRAHAM

TITLE:

Namvrcvm... From the Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, Antwerp

CONDITION:

Latin text on verso. Very fine original color, 15-1/4 x 20”. Fine condition.

DATE:

[1579-] 1595

DESCRIPTION:

This beautifully colored map shows the County of Namur in central Belgium. The city of Namur is located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. It is based on a 1555 unpublished manuscript map of Luxemburg and surrounding regions by Jacques Surhon.

The Theatrum was among the most important of all Renaissance books. It was the first modern atlas – the first systematic collection of maps that included all parts of the world, with the maps in a uniform format.

Ortelius collected the best available maps of the various countries and had them re-engraved in a uniform size. It is the first printed book of any kind to footnote sources. The maps are some of the most beautiful ever published, with great cartouches and embellishments in the mannerist style.

REFERENCES:

Van den Broecke, 68.

Inventory No. 8346