Auction Name: 2026 February 26 Historical Manuscripts & Texana Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 47033

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6328*47033

Girolamo Ruscelli. Nueva Hispania Tabula Nova. [Venice: Giordano Ziletti, 1561.]10 x 8 inches (sight), matted and framed to an overall size of 17 x 15 inches. Original copperplate engraving for Girolamo Ruscelli's 1561 edition of Ptolemy's Geography.

Ruscelli's map is based on Giacomo Gastaldi's 1548 map of New Spain, the first map specifically dedicated to the region. While Gastaldi's work was significant, it contained some egregious errors, including a depiction of the Yucatan Peninsula as an island. Ruscelli's map was far more accurate, with a correct depiction of the peninsula and place names showing the explorations of Pineda, Cabeza de Vaca, and Moscoso. The Mississippi River is shown as the Rio de Spirito Santo. The map enjoyed widespread influence and was reprinted in editions of Ptolemy throughout the remainder of the 16th century.

Condition: Not examined out of frame. Single central vertical fold with light toning thereat; a few minor spots of soiling.

Reference: Martin & Martin 3.

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