Ortelius, Abraham. Turcici Imperii Descriptio. Antwerp, 1570. [Middle East]

Abraham Ortelius (Flemish, 1527-1598)

Turcici Imperii Descriptio. Concordia parue res crescunt, Discordia maxime dilabuntur

Antwerp, 1570

Engraved map with original hand color

17 x 22 inches

This finely engraved map by Abraham Ortelius, the "father of the modern atlas," offers a detailed depiction of the Ottoman Empire at its height in the 16th century. Published in Ortelius's groundbreaking Theatrum Orbis Terrarum—the first modern atlas—this map reflects Europe’s intense interest in the political and cultural influence of the Ottoman Turks. It meticulously charts the empire’s vast expanse, covering regions spanning southeastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, while highlighting major cities, trade routes, and natural landmarks.

The Latin inscription, "Concordia parvae res crescunt, Discordia maxime dilabuntur" ("Small things grow through harmony; the greatest fall apart through discord"), underscores a broader political message relevant to both the Ottoman Empire and contemporary European powers. The map's original hand-coloring enhances its decorative appeal, with vivid hues delineating regional boundaries and embellishing key geographic features.

Ortelius's Turcici Imperii Descriptio stands as both a significant cartographic achievement and a reflection of Europe’s complex relationship with its powerful eastern neighbor during the Renaissance, combining artistry, scholarship, and historical context.