Munster, pub. 1598 - Map of the Ancient World (Africa, Europe, Asia)

Munster, pub. 1598 - Map of the Ancient World (Africa, Europe, Asia)
This very old woodcut is from Sebastian Munster's Cosmographey: das ist Beschreibung aller Länder [...] It was published in Basel in 1598 by Henric Petri.

The work was a massive chronicle of all the geographical knowledge of the world to that point. The work included world maps as well as views of smaller cities and woodcut illustrations of historical subjects, mythology, natural history and ethnography. It was the first work to show America in its "correct" continental form and "sealed the fate of 'America' as the name of the New World." (Burden 12) It was also the first to name the Pacific Ocean.

Sebastian Munster (1489-1552) was a German cartographer, cosmographer, and a Hebrew scholar. He also became a Franciscan monk at an early age. Munster's Cosmographia was the first work of scientific based knowledge in the German language.


Paper Size: ~ 16 1/2" by 13 1/2" (Fold Out)


Paper Type or Special Features: Woodcut Engraving with Professional Hand-coloring

The work is in good to very good condition overall. There is some discoloration and professional paper repair to the edges. There are a few minor worming holes in the lower portion of the print that are only more noticeable when held to light, should frame or mat well. There may be some light chipping or wear at the edges. There is some smudging mostly present to the margins. There may be a few minor imperfections or faint marks to be expected with age. There may be some faint bleed through or offset to the fold out plates. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.