Exceptionally scarce and beautiful woodcut map of Central Asia with the ancient regions of Sogdia, Bactria and Scythia, today Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan. This coloured woodcut originates from the first German edition of Polybius' work 'The Histories'. The illustration is based on the map type of Ptolemy. Printed by Sebastian Henricpetri in Basel, 1574.
TITLE:
'Beschreibung der Lantschafften so die Sogdianer/ Bargianer und Scythen bewohnen.'
WORK:
'Römische Historien. Auß Griechischer sprach in die Teutsche gebracht durch W. Xylander ...'
AUTHOR:
Polybius (200 - 180 BC), Greek historian, whose most famous work 'The Histories' describes in detail the history of Rome in the period 264 - 146 BC.
PRINT:
Sebastian Henricpetri, Basel, 1574
DESCRIPTION:
Coloured woodcut from the first German edition of 'The Histories' by Polybius, printed by Sebastian Henricpetri, 1574. The type of illustration is based on the model of Ptolemy's maps and shows Central Asia with the ancient regions of Sogdia, Bactria and Scythia. Realized are furthermore the Kaspian Sea and the Persian Gulf, decorating elements are the cordilleras, rivers and cities. 3 cartouches adorn the woodcut with information about the inhabitants of the regions. Verso with historical information about the Punic Wars.
SIZE:
leaf about: w 40,9 cm x h 32,5 cm
CONDITION:
- considering its age in remarkably good condition
- good paper quality, just minimal age toning and stains
- strong print
- partly print loss in centerfold
