Heading: (China)
Author: Ortelius, Abraham
Title: Chinae, olim Sinarum Regionis, Nova Descriptio. Auctore Ludovico Georgio
Place Published: Antwerp
Publisher:
Date Published: 1584-[1606]
Description:

Copper-engraved map, hand-colored. English text on verso. 37x47 cm (14½x18½").

Striking, beautifully-colored example of Abraham Ortelius's map of China, from the exceedingly rare English edition of his Theatrum, published only in one year - 1606. First published in 1584, Ortelius' map of China is the earliest printed map to focus on China and the first to illustrate the Great Wall of China, but only a relatively small section, its length is significantly underestimated. It was the standard map of the interior of China for over sixty years. There are three ornate cartouches and many vignette illustrations of yurts and other indigenous shelters, modes of transportation, and animals. This is the third state, with "Las Philippinas" inserted, and additional cross-hatching on one of the wind wagons. Van den Broecke #164; Karrow 1/152.

Faint toning and very neat repairs long centerfold; near fine.