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Description

One of the Earliest Obtainable Large Plans / Views of Siena

Fine early bird's-eye view of Siena, published by Pierre Mortier in his Nouveau Theatre de Toute L'Italie in 1704.

Mortier's view shows the a fortified hill town, including the principal fortified walls of the old city and the major landmarks clearly visible, with the various town gates named.

The view includes a 110-point key and a title cartouche featuring the arms of the city and another featuring the Virgin Mary.

Mortier's work was primarily a re-issue of Blaeu's townbook of Italy. However, the Siena view is one of a number of new views added by Mortier which had not been a part of the original Blaeu townbook.

Pierre Mortier Biography

Pierre, or Pieter, Mortier (1661-1711) was a Dutch engraver, son of a French refugee. He was born in Leiden. In 1690 he was granted a privilege to publish French maps in Dutch lands. In 1693 he released the first and accompanying volume of the Neptune Francois. The third followed in 1700. His son, Cornelis (1699-1783), would partner with Johannes Covens I, creating one of the most important map publishing companies of the eighteenth century.