- Date: c. 1574.
- Condition: AA.
- Colour: Hand colour
- Size: 14.1 x 18.8 inches
Title: Cypri Insulae Nova Descript
Ortelius based his map upon that published in Venice by Jacomo Franco in about 1570. Franco's map greatly improved the shape and outline of the island, and he gave more place names than any previous mapmaker. Unfortunately, Franco's map survives in only three copies, and this Ortelius' beautifully engraved version of 1573 is the earliest obtainable version.
It is a landmark in the history of the cartography of Cyprus, as it was copied by scores of later mapmakers. Ortelius' map improves upon that of Franco in that it is on a larger scale and is superior in its style and ornamentation. The map is embellished by three sailing ships, a sea monster and three large strapwork cartouches, one of which encloses an inset map of the Greek island of Lemnos.
Reference: A. and J.A.Stylianou, The history of the Cart.of Cyprus
Very good condition but invisibly repaired tear across image.