Obis Terrae Compendiosa

This world map tapestry is a reproduction of Obis Terrae Compendiosa, an early 17th century world map. It was designed by Dutch cartographer Jan Baptist Vrients (1552 - 1612), a successor to Abraham Ortelius (1528 - 1598), the most prominent cartographer during the 16th century, and was based on an earlier map by Petrus Plancius (1552 - 1622). It features the world split into two hemispheres and is framed with elaborate pictorial scenes typical of the style of other maps of the era.

It is inscribed with "Orbis Terrae Compendiosa Descriptio", meaning "A Brief Representation of the World", and contains an impressive amount of detail matched only by the breadth of its knowledge. Like Plancius' earlier map it is decorated with numerous details including symbolic figures at each corner, landscape vignettes and exotic animals and fauna from the far-off shores it represents.

The original was engraved by Arnoldus and Henricus Florentinus van Langren for use in the first edition of Linschoten's Itinerario, a compendium of maps covering the known world. Its style is heavily influenced by many other maps of the day, in particular the work of Ortelius and Plancius, and reflects the almost constant growing body of knowledge of the time as well as the central importance of the Dutch during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Despite containing an impressive level of detail the piece transfers well to wall tapestries losing none of its ability to inform and impress. As wall decor it both educates and amazes, capturing the excitement of discovery and adventure from the 16th and 17th century Dutch explorers in a vivid and engaging way.

This tapestry is lined and has a tunnel for ease of hanging .

Copyright © 2006 The Tapestry House

Price: $869.00
Product code: s139-s
Size: 85" x 56"
Shipping weight: 4 lbs
Material: 80% Cotton 20% Wool
Country: Belgium
Category: Tapestry Wall Hangings > World Maps

This product is available in one size only.

Obis Terrae Compendiosa ~ 85" x 56"

$869.00

All prices in US Dollars (US$)

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