DESCRIPTIO ACCURATA TERRAE PROMISSAE / LA TERRE SAINTE MODERNE

Key Properties

Language: Latin and French (double title)

Format: Engraved map, one sheet

Collation & Technical Description

Copper engraving with outline colour. Approx. 30⅛ × 20 in. Double map: the biblical Promised Land divided among the Twelve Tribes of Israel (left) and the Ottoman Holy Land divided into administrative districts (right).

Condition

The photograph shows a good impression, wide margins and a normal centre fold. There is light discolouration and some cockling, but no evident major damage.

References & Bibliography

Nicolas de Fer, after the memoirs of Philippe de la Rue, Descriptio accurata Terrae Promissae per Sortes XII / La Terre Sainte moderne, published by G. Danet, Paris, 1720.

Philippe de la Rue is known by some fifteen maps, all of the Near East.

Description

This large double sheet presents two views of the same region. On the left is the biblical Promised Land divided among the Twelve Tribes of Israel. On the right is the early-eighteenth-century Holy Land under Ottoman rule, divided into administrative districts.

The contrast between ancient and contemporary geography is the principal strength of the sheet. It therefore appeals both to collectors of historical cartography and to buyers interested in biblical history and the Ottoman Empire.

Its large format and two-part composition make it an attractive wall object.

Notable features: Two maps on one sheet: biblical and early eighteenth century; Large format with clear accompanying texts; Broad audience within religious and historical cartography.

Historical Significance

Juxtaposes biblical and contemporary geography of the Holy Land, a popular early-eighteenth-century device appealing to both religious and historical interest.

Provenance

Not established.