Maps, Italy, Pisa, Ravenna, river Po, Ortelius
"Italia Gallica, sive Gallia Cisalpina" Copper etching from the atlas "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" by Abraham Ortelius. Antwerp, 1595. Hand coloring, probably in the 20th century. Reverse text: Latin.
This is a historic not a geographical map. It was added to the original atlas as the IV additamentum. The historical maps were all engraved by Abraham Ortelius himself and added to the atlas in five stages under the subtitle "Parergon, sive veteris geographiae aliquot tabulae". Since these maps were added only three years before Ortelius died, they were printed only in the last few editions of this magnificent atlas work.
Map shows area south of the Alps to a line from Pisa to Ravenna. Names of places and rivers in Latin. Great attention is paid to the rivers, the contributeries to the river Po, which also in ancient times, was a gigantic, most fertile and therefore wealthy area. Ortelius shows in particular the flood plains towards the Adratic Sea which was curse and blessing for the people and the agriculture.
Original antique print
Pleasant general age toning. Wide margins. Map has repairs in upper area visible on the reverse side. Centerfold has been reinforced.
34.5 x 46.5 cm (13.6 x 18.3")
