1602 Russiae, Moscoviae et Tartariae

Russiae, Moscoviae et Tartariae Descriptio Auctore Antonio Ienkensono Anglo edita Londini 1562 & dedicata¡­

By:?Abraham Ortelius

Date:?1602 (Published) Antwerp

Original Size:?13.8 x 17.5 inches (35.1 x 44.5 cm)

This is a fine print reproduction of Ortelius¡¯ map of Russia based on the rare Anthony Jenkinson map drawn in 1562.

This decorative example of Abraham Ortelius¡¯ map of Russia covers an area from the North Sea and the Gulf of Finland, Karelia, Lithuania and Latvia as far south as to the northern shores of the Black Sea. It extends eastward as far as Colmack in the northeast to Kirgesia in the southeast.

Latin text on the face of the map enumerates in remarkable detail many traditions, customs and characteristics of the indigenous peoples of the various regions depicted. In addition to the text, numerous scenes serve to embellish it and to illustrate the customs described.

An especially interesting scene concerns burial customs of the nomadic Kirgese, who are depicted hanging their dead from trees.?Ivan the Terrible of Russia is seen seated before his elaborate tent holding a scepter. Important cities and regions are named throughout the map. Vignettes are based on the travels of Marco Polo, and altogether include a dozen indigenous and mythical scenes, costumed locals and animals.

Inventory #11242