Original 1588 Map of Arabia and Persia During the Safavid-Ottoman Conflicts

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About the Item

Map of Arabia and the Persian Empire during the Safavid Dynasty by Sebastian Münster (1588) This map, titled "Von den Landern Asie, Das Funfften Buch" (The Lands of Asia, Book Five), is a woodcut engraving by the renowned cartographer Sebastian Münster, published in 1588. It forms part of his famous work "Cosmographia", one of the most influential geographical texts of the 16th century. Historical Context: The map illustrates the regions of Arabia and Persia during the time of the Safavid Dynasty in Persia, just after the Ottomans ended the Peace of Amasya (1555-1588). The Peace of Amasya was a significant treaty between the Ottoman Empire and the Safavid Empire, which ended hostilities and established borders between the two powers for several decades. However, after the treaty ended, the Ottoman Empire launched new conquests in western Persia, which is the historical backdrop of this map. Key Features: - Depiction of Major Regions: - The map includes key regions such as Arabia and Persia, reflecting the political and geographical understanding of these areas in late 16th-century Europe. - Important locations like Mesopotamia, Syria, Media, and Armenia are clearly marked, showcasing the extent of the Persian Empire and surrounding territories. - Safavid Persia: - The map represents the Persian Empire during the rule of the Safavids, a major dynasty that established Shia Islam as the state religion of Persia and played a crucial role in the development of Persian culture. - Ottoman-Persian Conflict: - The map was created shortly after the renewal of conflicts between the Ottoman Empire and the Safavid Empire, highlighting the geopolitical tensions of the time. - Artistic and Cartographic Style: - As a woodcut engraving, the map features detailed representations of mountains, rivers, and cities, along with artistic elements typical of Münster's style. The use of exaggerated geographical features reflects the limitations of the period's cartographic knowledge. Importance: This map is not only a valuable cartographic document but also an important historical artifact that provides insights into the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East during the late 16th century. It captures a moment in time when the Ottoman Empire was expanding its influence in Persia, and it reflects the European perspective on these distant and strategically important lands. Conclusion: Sebastian Münster’s map from 1588 is a remarkable example of Renaissance cartography, offering a unique glimpse into the historical and geographical understanding of Arabia and Persia during a period of significant conflict and cultural development. It remains a prized piece for collectors and historians alike, symbolizing the intersection of art, history, and geography. Here is the translation of the front page text from German to English: "And after he had suffered great damage and the city was freed from his violence, King Hezekiah fell into a deadly illness, but he was delivered from it by a great sign through the power of God; it was promised to him that the city would be protected from the violence of the King of Assyria, who was a declared enemy of the Jewish people. But when the King of Babylon heard that King Hezekiah had been miraculously healed, he sent envoys and gifts to King Hezekiah as a sign of rejoicing, etc. However, the Holy Scriptures do not report how these two kingdoms grew together after this time. Eusebius writes that the King of Media conquered the kingdom of Assyria 818 years before the birth of Christ and brought King Sardanapalus down in war, and they then ruled over the land, namely Cyrus, who also appointed his son Cambyses over the Assyrians during his lifetime. The first king was called Arbaces, who subjected Assyria to himself; the third or fourth after him is said to have been Sennacherib, whom I have already mentioned before." --- This text seems to be a historical recount of events related to King Hezekiah of Judah, his illness, the interaction with the King of Babylon, and references to ancient kingdoms such as Assyria and Media, with citations from historical sources like Eusebius.

Dimensions:
Height: 11.82 in (30 cm)Width: 7.68 in (19.5 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
Materials and Techniques:
Paper,Engraved
Period:
16th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1588
Condition:
Condition: Fair, given age. Light foxing and creasing. One brownish spot in the Arabian dessert area. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully. German text.
Seller Location:
Langweer, NL
Reference Number:
Seller: BG-13746-11stDibs: LU3054341039982