5425 - Mercator's Ptolemy, pub. 1730 - Pair of Maps of Italy

Mercator's Ptolemy, pub. 1730 - Pair of Maps of Italy Description of the work: This notable engraved map is from Claudius Ptolemaeus (Ptolemy) & Gerard Mercator's Orbis Antiqui Tabulae Geographicae Secundum Cl. Ptolemaeum, cum Indice Philologico absolutissimo... The work was published in Amsterdam in 1730 by R. & J. Wetstenios & Guil. Smith. This is from what is the final and definitive edition of the Ptolemaic atlas. Mercator first published his atlas in 1578, with all but tablet VII of Europe using the original copper plates. This work was a later published edition of Ptolemy (Ptolemaeus)’s Geographia. The work was considered one of the most influential cartographic accounts of the ancient world and served as inspiration for all Renaissance mapmakers. He compiled what was known of the world's geography in the Roman Empire during his time (circa 90-168 AD). Ptolemy was a mathematician, astronomer, geographer, astrologer, and poet. The earliest known manuscripts of Geographia date to 1300 and it was first printed in 1477. Gerard Mercator (1512-1594) is one of the most famous cartographers. He created the Mercator projection for maps which had all parallels and meridians drawn at right angles to each other. This proved exceptionally useful to sailors allowing them to much more easily navigate. Mercator also introduced the term of "atlas", first used to describe his collection of maps gathered into one volume. Mercator is certainly best known for his maps and projections. Mercator was one the greatest names in early cartography, with his friend, Abraham Ortelius, describing Mercator as being the “contemporary Ptolemy”. Provenance: Modern label of Cortachy Castle Library to front pastedown Paper Size: ~ 21" by 18" (Fold Out) Paper Type or Special Features: Engraving Condition: The work is in very good to excellent condition. There may be a few minor imperfections or faint fox marks to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.