Abraham Ortelius: One of the first and greatest of the Dutch map makers, his "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" of 1570 is generally considered the first modern Atlas - For this work, large copper plates were engraved, and from time to time alterations were made in these plates as various editions were issued, even as late as 1693 long after Ortelius' death

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Abraham Ortelius: One of the first and greatest of the Dutch map makers, his "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" of 1570 is generally considered the first modern Atlas - For this work, large copper plates were engraved, and from time to time alterations were made in these plates as various editions were issued, even as late as 1693 long after Ortelius' death

• 1527-1598 (Creation)

These maps are exceedingly decorative, and careful examination of any one of them will disclose curious little figures, scenes or other decoration. The specimen herewith, is one of these original engravings, with nice old coloring.