Tabula Asia IX

Ruscelli map on trapezoidal projection, based on the work of both Ptolemy and Giacomo Gastaldi, and bears a strong resemblance to Munster’s map of the same region dated 1552. 

The map focuses on eastern Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan as they were known in Ptolemaic times, covering the region between ancient Parthia and the Indus River valley, and between Herat and the Indian Ocean. The mountainous regions of western Iran are remarkably accurately drawn as is the Indus River system and its delta where it empties into the Arabian Sea near Karachi. Many place names are denoted as they were by Ptolemy in antiquity.

Map taken from Geographia di Claudio Tolomeo edited by Girolamo Ruscelli, published in Venice in several editions between 1561 and 1598. The maps is based on the Geografia by Giacomo Gastaldi (1548), who probably also personally drew these maps, which were engraved by the brothers Livio and Giulio Sanuto.

The peculiarity of these maps is that they are engraved two for plate and subsequently cut; this is why the copper sign only appears on three sides of the map. Ruscelli's text and his maps are considered to be the best modern atlas up to the first version of Abraham Ortelius' Theatrum Orbis Terrarum (1570).

Only their widespread diffusion prevents a sustained evaluation in the antiquarian market. In fact, the work had a first edition in 1561, printed by Vincenzo Valgrisi who also edited the 1562 reprint. There are three editions signed by Giordano Ziletti (two in 1564 and one in 1574), while in 1597 it was published by the Calignani brothers. All these editions contain 64 plates. In 1598 and 1599 the two editions edited by Giuseppe Rosaccio and printed by the heirs of Melchior Sessa came to light. These last two editions include 69 plates; in fact, Rosaccio's map of the planisphere and continents has been added.

Etching and engraving with fine later hand colour, in good condition.