World Maps · 16th century
€ 440
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good condition for its age. Trimmed to the neatline with some minor toning and faint marginal foxing. The coloring remains vibrant and the paper strong, with no tears or repairs.
Asia Minor – Antique Map of Natolia by Ortelius, Theatrum Orbis Terrarum c.1600
This beautifully hand-colored antique map titled Natoliae quae olim Asia Minor nova descriptio presents a detailed and artistic rendering of ancient Asia Minor, known today as Anatolia in modern-day Turkey. Originally published in the monumental atlas Theatrum Orbis Terrarum by Abraham Ortelius, circa 1600, this map captures the historical region with accuracy and aesthetic finesse typical of early modern cartography.
The map spans from the Aegean coast in the west to the mountainous interior of Anatolia in the east, and includes parts of the eastern Mediterranean, notably Cyprus and nearby islands. Cities such as Ephesus, Troy, and Pergamon are clearly marked, reflecting the classical geography that Ortelius was renowned for bringing to a Renaissance audience. Though originally issued on a sheet alongside two companion maps (of Egypt and Carthage), this example has been trimmed to feature the Natolia map alone.
Ortelius’s Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, first published in 1570, is widely considered the first modern atlas. Each map was based on the best available sources of the time and beautifully engraved, typically by Frans Hogenberg, and often hand-colored. Ortelius’s historical and classical maps, such as this one, are especially admired for their blending of ancient geographical knowledge with the printing and artistic sophistication of the late 16th century.
Condition report: Very good condition for its age. Trimmed to the neatline with some minor toning and faint marginal foxing. The coloring remains vibrant and the paper strong, with no tears or repairs.
Framing tips: This map pairs beautifully with a classic gold-leaf or ebonized wood frame. A deep cream or parchment-colored mat will enhance its aged tones and highlight the subtle hand-coloring.
