Abraham Ortelius
28 x 39 cm
Silesia issued by Ortelius based on Martin Helwig's map first drawn in 1561.
Silesia was a historically important and wealthy region which changed hands multiple times during its history. In 1561, when this map was first drawn, it had just become part of the Austrian Hapsburg possessions, accounting for the shield showing the Imperial Eagle on the upper right. In the mid 18th century, it would become the location for one of Frederick the Great's most important victories when he annexed it for the resurgent Kingdom of Prussia.
Original hand colour. Latin text on verso (image available on request). SL
[POL1034]