Map of Aeneas' journey across the Mediterranean as recorded by Virgil in the Aeneid.

De Fer (1646-1720) was the son of a prominent engraver and produced his first map in 1669. He joined his father's business in 1673 and ultimately took over in 1687. He was a prolific map maker who produced over six hundred separate maps in multiple forms; as separate issues, bound within history and travel books, and as atlases. In the late 17th century he was made Geographer to the Dauphin.

This beautifully engraved map records the voyage of Aeneas, Prince of Troy after the defeat of the city by the Greeks. It begins in a fictitious location for Troy near the Straits of the Dardanelles and after many years, ultimately ends in the location of Rome. The adventures of Aeneas during this journey form the epic "The Aeneid" penned by Virgil.

The map is inspired by another piece on the same subject engraved by Abraham Ortelius in the 16th century, although their appearance is very different. This map seems to be similar to a map issued by John Ogilby and engraved by Wenceslaus Hollar in 1653.
[MED2408]