“TYPUS ORBIS TERRARUM” Abraham Ortelius. Antwerp: Jan B. Vrients, c. 1602. Engraved map with later hand-coloring. From Epitome Theatri Orteliani. Verso text: Italian. (Ref: Shirley #161). (Image: 3 x 4 ¼’’)
This miniature map is based on the 1588 Ortelius folio map of the world on an oval projection. It incorporates the amended coastline of western South America, removing the prominent bulge evident on the 1572 version. North America is still shown as quite broad, with the Northwest Passage (taken from Mercator) very prominent.
Quivira Regnum is noted in the North American west - a city described to Coronado as “rich in gold with lordly rulers”. He spent 1540-42 searching for this fabled land of treasure. Quivira continued to appear on maps throughout the 18th century - spawning the imagination of the map-reader and explorer.
Anian Regnum is another mythical kingdom noted in the Northwest – reflecting more of the stories told by the conquistadors of gold and wealthy empires supposedly found in the North American continent.
Large land masses are shown at both poles with Psitacorum Regnum (Land of Parrots) noted beneath the southern tip of Africa. South America's corrected shape is surprisingly accurate. A fascinating view of the world as it was unfolding to the 17th century explorers and map makers.
Presented in an archival 11x14'' mat
