Greece - Crete

G. Mercator/H. Hondius, Candia cum Insulis aliquot circa Graeciam. Amsterdam 1628. Beautiful, original hand-coloured map of Crete and 6 other greece islands. An incredibly popular, decorative, and fascinating 17th-century copperplate engraved multi-inset map titled "Candia cum Insulis aliquot circa Graeciam". Originally created by Gerard Mercator (1512–1594), this map was published in Amsterdam by Henricus Hondius for inclusion in the iconic Mercator-Hondius Atlas Major. This specific composition is highly prized by collectors because it functions as seven maps in one. The main body of the engraving features a large, highly detailed horizontal map of the island of Crete (traditionally known as Candia under Venetian rule), showing its rugged mountain ranges, coastal towns, and administrative divisions. Running across the top border are six distinct, beautifully executed island inset panels detailing strategically important Greek islands: 1. Corfu (Corfu) 2. Zakynthos (Zante) 3. Milos (Milo) 4. Naxos (Nicsia) 5. Santorini (Santorini) 6. Karpathos (Scarpanto) The open waters of the Mediterranean Sea (Maris Mediterranei Pars) feature Mercator’s beautiful signature stippling pattern, punctuated by decorative calligraphic lettering and a classical architectural mileage cartouche. Dimensions: 33,5 x 47,5 cm (engraving), 46 x 56,5 cm (paper) Very good condition.

Estimate:£251.27

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