Abraham Ortelius
38.1 x 50.8 cm
Abraham Ortelius's fine map showing six of the major islands of the Mediterranean, including Sicily, Sardinia, Corfu, Malta, Elba, and Djerba (Tunisia). Published in the 1598 edition of the Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, the first modern world atlas.
French descriptive text on the verso describes each of the islands in turn: Sicily is praised for the richness of its soil and for the multitude and antiquity of its towns; Malta is noted as the site of St. Paul's shipwreck and for resisting Ottoman assaults; Elba's iron mines and excellent wines are mentioned.
French text on verso (image available on request). Original hand-colour. [MED1997]