Fine example of this foundational map of the New World. This is the third state or version with updates and corrections from 1587 onwards.

In 1570 Ortelius produced the work that is now regarded as his legacy and is often cited as one of the most important printed works ever published. The “Theatrum Orbis Terrarum” or “Theater of the World” was a bound collection of maps, all of the same size and style, curated to take the reader on a journey around the world as it was known in the late 16th century. In short, he produced the first ever “Atlas” although that term did not become used until substantially later, in 1595.

The map of the New World made its first appearance in the 1570 of the work. In 1587, a new edition of the atlas was issued and the map of the Americas was heavily revised and altered, particularly in the case of South America, with its shape drastically altered. Although difficult to trace, it is believed that the revisions were based on new Spanish and English sources, particularly as an extremely rare English map by Richard Hakluyt was published in the same year. It is unknown which map came out first during the year but in both cases, it is the first time that this geographical shape was used for South America. Although the alterations to South America are the most noticeable, other updates include the inclusion of the Solomon Islands, additional names in North America including “California” and “Rio de los Estrechos” and Ortelius adding his own name to this map on the lower right. Its new appearance influenced all following maps of the New World for the next thirty years.

This is a fine example of this map with original colour. Latin text on reverse. Image available on request. [AMER2414]