Map of Duchy of Brunswick-Lüneburg, 1595

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Title: "Braunschweig and Lüneburg Duchies: Authentic Depiction by Abraham Ortelius" This is an exquisite example of Abraham Ortelius’s cartographic craftsmanship: … Read more Title: "Braunschweig and Lüneburg Duchies: Authentic Depiction by Abraham Ortelius" This is an exquisite example of Abraham Ortelius’s cartographic craftsmanship: an original antique copper engraving depicting the Duchies of Braunschweig (Brunswick) and Lüneburg. Dated to 1595 and published in Antwerp, this map is hand-colored in outline, capturing the geographical nuances of the region during the Renaissance. Stretching northward to the Elbe River and encompassing the notable city of Hamburg, the map is meticulously annotated with place names, including villages, rivers, woodlands, and other significant topographical features. Each engraved name and icon is a testament to the thorough surveying methods of the era and Ortelius's attention to detail. A notable feature of this piece is the Renaissance title cartouche in the upper right corner, which is both an ornamental and a symbolic representation of the period's aesthetic. In the lower right, a mileage scale rendered in the map's color palette serves a practical purpose, guiding the measurements of distance with historical accuracy. The reverse side of the map holds Latin text, offering additional context and scholarly content to this cartographic masterpiece. As a work of Abraham Ortelius, a renowned figure in the development of early modern cartography, this map holds significant value for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts of geographical history. It is a splendid reflection of the era's cartographic elegance and an enduring piece of Renaissance artistry. Abraham Ortelius (1527–1598) was a notable figure in the history of cartography, credited with creating the first modern atlas. He was a Flemish cartographer and geographer, recognized as the 'father of modern geography' by many historians. Here are some key points about his life and work: 1. **Early Life and Career**: Ortelius was born in Antwerp, which was part of the Habsburg Netherlands during a period known as the Dutch Golden Age. He began his career as a map engraver and dealer. He traveled extensively across Europe, gathering geographical information and establishing connections with other scholars. 2. **Theatrum Orbis Terrarum**: Ortelius's most famous contribution to cartography was the "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" (Theatre of the World), first published in 1570. This is considered the first true modern atlas in that it was a systematically collected and standardized set of maps, all of similar size, and bound together into a book. 3. **Cartographic Advances**: Ortelius is known for hypothesizing that the continents were once joined together before drifting apart, a notion that would much later be developed into the theory of continental drift. His work often included maps from other cartographers, which he compiled and sometimes improved upon based on the latest geographical knowledge. 4. **Impact and Legacy**: The "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" went through numerous editions and was published in several languages, reflecting its wide-reaching impact. Ortelius was appointed as the Royal Geographer to King Philip II of Spain, a position that reflected the respect he commanded in his field. 5. **Collaborations**: Ortelius also maintained a network of correspondents across Europe, including prominent figures such as Gerardus Mercator. This network was crucial for the exchange of cartographic knowledge and discoveries. 6. **Death and Commemoration**: After his death, Ortelius was hailed for his contributions to geography and cartography. His work was carried on by others, including his nephew, who continued to publish editions of the "Theatrum." Ortelius's work not only marked a significant advancement in map-making but also reflected the broader cultural and scientific developments of the Renaissance. His atlas helped lay the foundation for the way we think about maps and geography today. See less