By: Sebastian Münster

Date: 1550 (circa) Basel

Dimensions: 8.5 x 6 inches (21.5 x 15.25 cm) not including title in top margin

This fascinating early map of Sicily is a woodcut from the masterwork Cosmographia. of Sebastian Münster. The map depicts the major coastal cities of the island including Palermo. Syracuse. and Agrigento.

At the northern end of the island Etna is shown in flames. perhaps ready to erupt. Carthage in northern Africa is included. and a portion of the island of Malta. The map features a decorative element in a large seagoing vessel at full sail with all oars engage. sailing to the west with flags flying. The verso features descriptive text in Italin of the islands of Capri and Elba.  This lovely edition of Munster's various maps of Sicily is seen relatively rarely on the market.

Sebastian Münster (1488–1552) was one of the most influential cartographers and cosmographers of the 16th century. Born in Ingelheim. near Mainz. Münster was originally a scholar of Hebrew and theology before his interest in geography led him to become one of the foremost mapmakers of his era. His most famous work. Cosmographia. was first published in 1544 and became one of the earliest comprehensive descriptions of the world. heavily influencing geographical understanding in Europe.

Sebastian Münster's maps. known for their accuracy and artistry. were often accompanied by extensive written descriptions. which provided context for his visual representations. His cartographic work covered not only Europe but also extended to include maps of the Americas. Asia. and Africa. making Cosmographia one of the most important works of Renaissance geography. Throughout his career. Münster worked to incorporate both scientific knowledge and aesthetic detail into his maps. and he helped lay the foundation for modern cartography with his dedication to depicting the world as accurately as possible. Though Münster died of the plague in 1552. his work was still published well into the 17th century.

Condition: This map is in A condition. A crisp impression with full margins.

Inventory #12922                                                                                                 

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