Mercator, Gerard [and Jodocus Hondius] | One of the most significant atlases in the history of cartography

Mercator, Gerard [and Jodocus Hondius]

Atlas Sive Cosmographicae Meditationes De Fabrica Mundi Et Fabricati Figura... Editio Quarta. Amsterdam: Jodocus Hondius, 1619

Folio (465 x 305 mm). French text, engraved title, double-page engraved portrait of Mercator and Hondius, 3 (of 4) engraved divisional titles (lacking "Belgii In Ferioris Geographicae tabule"), 156 engraved maps with contemporary hand-coloring on tabs, all but one double-page; margins of title and following leaf reinforced, final leaves with marginal reinforcements, marginal dampstaining to preliminary and final leaves, fingersoiling to margins, some spotting and browning, marginal chips and closed tears, "Cornubia, Devonia" with reinforced margins and repaired closed tear, other maps with repair or reinforcement to central fold (primarily to the lower margin). Contemporary vellum with yapp edges, paneled in blind with central lozenge, edges gilt; soiling and wear, lacking ties, endleaves renewed.  

The Mercator-Hondius atlas — slightly enlarged, with the addition of a few maps relating to France

The present atlas represents one of the most significant in the history and development of cartography. It was first published in 1595 by Mercator, and then continued by Hondius, who, in 1604, purchased Mercator's plates. New maps were included in each subsequent edition, expanding the 107 maps of the first edition to 156 in the 1619 edition (as here). 

"A model of clarity and neatness" (Shirley).

REFERENCE

Koeman Me 26A