Outstandingexample of this foundational map of the New World. Published in the Theatrum

Orbis Terrarum, this is the third state or version with updates and corrections

from 1587 onwards.

In 1570 Ortelius produced the work that is now regarded as his legacy and is often

cited as one of the most important printed works ever published. The “Theatrum

Orbis Terrarum” or “Theater of the World” was a bound collection of maps, all

of the same size and style, curated to take the reader on a journey around the

world as it was known in the late 16th century. In short, he produced the first ever “Atlas” although that term did not

become used until substantially later, in 1595.

The map of the New World made its first appearance in the 1570 of the work. In 1587, a new

edition of the atlas was issued and the map of the Americas was heavily revised

and altered, particularly in the case of South America, with its shape

drastically altered. Although difficult to trace, it is believed that the

revisions were based on new Spanish and English sources, particularly as an

extremely rare English map by Richard Hakluyt was published in the same year.

It is unknown which map came out first during the year but in both cases, it is

the first time that this geographical shape was used for South America.

Although the alterations to South America are the most noticeable, other updates include

the inclusion of the Solomon Islands, additional names in North America including

“California” and “Rio de los Estrechos” and Ortelius adding his own name to this

map on the lower right.

Its new appearance influenced all following maps of the New World for the next thirty

years.

This is a particularly outstanding example of this map with extremely vivid and striking

original colour. Latin text on reverse. Image available on request. [AMER2390]