Bidspirit auction | 1558 ILLUSTRATED SCANDINAVIA ANTIQUE HISTORIA

1558 ILLUSTRATED SCANDINAVIA ANTIQUE HISTORIA DE GENTIBUS SEPTENTRIONALIBUS RARE - Magnus, Olaus. Historia de Gentibus Septentrionalibus... (Description of the Northern Peoples) Antwerp: Christopher Plantin; 1558 ff. (viii), 192 (erratic foliation). Illustrated with 135 in-text woodcuts. Later full brown calf, ruled and lettered in gilt, all edges gilt, spine with raised bands and gilt tile Very good condition -Adams M-143; Brunet III, 1302- A lovely copy of the abridged edition of Olaus Magnus's famous work on the history and customs of the people of Scandinavia. Originally published in folio in Rome, in 1555, this edition was spearheaded by Corneille Grapheus, patron of printer Christopher Plantin. The 135 fascinating woodcuts are reduced versions from the 1555 edition, and depict all aspects of Scandinavian daily life, with some featuring fantastical sea monsters and other creatures, alongside scenes such as fishing, skiing, landscapes views, and various industries. Size 4 by 6 1/4 inches Text in Latin Olaus Magnus' ”Historia de Gentibus Septentrionalibus” (A Description of the Northern Peoples), printed in Rome in 1555, was a seminal work on the Nordic countries, rich in woodcuts and considered a valuable source of information on Scandinavian customs and folklore. The book, officially titled ”Historia de Gentibus Septentrionalibus, earumque diversis statibus, conditionibus, moribus, ” (History of the Northern Peoples, their various states, conditions, and customs), explored Scandinavian history, geography, warfare, natural history, religion, government, and social life. Olaus Magnus, a Swedish Catholic priest and scholar, wrote the book after fleeing Sweden due to his religious beliefs and settling in Italy. He was the last Catholic Archbishop of Sweden, though Sweden had broken ties with the Pope by that point. The book is famous for its numerous woodcuts, depicting people, customs, and even legendary creatures, which greatly contributed to its popularity. These illustrations included what are believed to be the first representations of skiers ever printed. The work long served as the authority on Swedish matters in Europe, and it was translated into several languages, including Dutch, Italian, German, English, and Swedish. Abridged versions also appeared in various cities. The ”Historia” is considered a valuable resource for understanding Scandinavian customs and folklore of the 16th century, offering a unique perspective beyond what was available elsewhere. Olaus Magnus is also known for his map of Scandinavia, the ”Carta Marina” (or Carta Gothica), which was printed in Venice in 1539 and is connected to the illustrations in the ”Historia”. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions will ship all lots domestically for $25.00 per lot. Combined and international shipping are available. The rates will be provided upon request.