Introductio in Universam Geographiam

Frontispiece from a 1711 edition of Cluver’s Geographiam.

“It is a safe right for you to indulge in rest, and although I am away from human things, I am happy. Tireless Atlas supports the orbs of the heavens, and the watchful Anna of Earth rules the globe.” [Rough translation of Latin text at the bottom of the page]

This beautiful frontispiece was drawn by Bernard Lens II and engraved by John Sturt. It was issued to accompany the 1711 editions of Philipp Cluver’s Introductio in Universam Geographiam, published in London by John Nicholson. The image is rich with allegory, as Atlas bears the weight of the world above five figures.

The first, seated in the center, is Queen Anne, holding a scepter and the scales of justice. Surrounding her are additional figures representing four continents. America, lower right, is holding a tropical bird and reclining on a horde of golden. Africa is immediately above, wielding a bow and quiver. Asia is shown as a Turkish man with an incense burner, and Europe as a stately queen with a book. Both of the latter two are also holding scepters – likely reflecting their regal authority over the ‘uncivilized’ other.

Source: British Museum.