Bidspirit auction | Gerardo Mercatore (Gerardus Mercator, 1512–1594).

Gerardo Mercatore (Gerardus Mercator, 1512–1594). - Map Gerardo MERCATORE – Abruzzo et Terra di Lavoro – Rare Original Map of the 16th Century. Map Gerardo MERCATORE – Abruzzo et Terra di Lavoro – Rare Original Map of the 16th Century Gerardo MERCATORE – Abruzzo et Terra di Lavoro – Rare Original Map of the 16th Century Author: Gerardo Mercatore (Gerardus Mercator, 1512–1594). Title of the work: ABR VZZO ET TERRA DI LAVORO. Period: Late 16th century (circa 1589-1600). Technique: Copper engraving (etching/burin). Support: Period laid paper with typical chain and wire lines visible against the light. Dimensions: Sheet approximately 41 x 53 cm (folio format); Engraving approximately 35 x 48 cm. Condition: Excellent. Sheet with intact margins, original central editorial fold mark. Slight and uniform browning due to age which lends prestige to the specimen. No invasive restoration detected. Analysis of the Work Refined geographical map describing the territory of Abruzzo Citeriore and Ulteriore, extending to Terra di Lavoro and the Gulf of Naples. The work is taken from Mercatore's monumental cartographic production (probably from the Atlas Sive Cosmographicae). Fine details: Cartouche: In the lower right, an elegant Renaissance cartouche with a mascaron, volutes, and floral decorations. Orography and Hydrography: Detailed representation of the Apennine reliefs ”mole-hill style” and the hydrographic network, with particular emphasis on the Fucino basin (before reclamation). Inscriptions: In the lower left, the autograph signature on the plate: ”Per Gerardum Mercatorem Cum Privilegio”. Toponymy: Extremely rich, with hundreds of inhabited centers represented with the typical ”castle” symbolism of the era.