Details
Description
This antique map of ancient Syria, titled Syriae sive Soriae Descriptio, comes from an edition of Philipp Clüver's Introductio in … Read more This antique map of ancient Syria, titled Syriae sive Soriae Descriptio, comes from an edition of Philipp Clüver's Introductio in universam geographiam of around 1697. It carries the page reference Pag. 623 in the upper right corner and is decorated with an elephant bearing the title on its saddle cloth. The map shows the Syrian coast from Cilicia and the Gulf of Antioch to Tyre, with Phoenicia, Seleucis, Antiochene, Coele Syria and Commagene, and extends east across the Euphrates to Edessa and Mesopotamia. Antioch, Apamea, Palmyra, Damascus, Tripoli, Byblos and Sidon are named, and many entries give both the classical and the later form, such as Aradus now Ruad, while mountains and forests are drawn pictorially. Philipp Clüver, the founder of historical geography, wrote his Introductio in the early seventeenth century, and it was reprinted many times with small engraved maps for students of the classical world. The elephant cartouche is one of the most charming in the series and recalls the war elephants of the Seleucid kings. This early map of Syria and Lebanon, over three hundred years old, is a lovely piece for a collector of the ancient Near East and suits a small frame in a study or library. Beyond its decorative appeal, a map of this kind records the place names, routes and political divisions known to travellers, merchants and scholars of its day, which gives it lasting value as a historical document. The sheet is in good condition for its age, with light toning, a few small spots and faint show through of a number from the reverse in the lower margin. This is an original antique map, not a modern reproduction. This item is sold unframed. Any framed or interior images are shown for presentation and inspiration only, unless the listing explicitly states that the item is sold framed. See less
- Dimensions
- 11.42ʺW × 9.45ʺH
- Period
- 17th Century
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Paper
- Condition
- Good Condition, Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Gold
- Condition Notes
- Very Good — This vintage item has no defects, but it may show slight traces of use\. Good condition for … moreVery Good — This vintage item has no defects, but it may show slight traces of use\. Good condition for its age. Light toning with a few small spots; faint show through of a reference number from the reverse in the lower margin. less
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.