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M-13599: (Image: 15 ¼ x 9 ¼ '') “ATLAS HISTORIQUE TOME II'' Amsterdam: Henri Abraham and Zacharias Chatelain, c. 1705-39. Beautiful copper-plate engraving with old hand-coloring. Reference: Shirley #75.

This highly detailed title page depicts the allegorical figure of Truth seated in the center on the plinth holding a mirror which enables her to look backwards into the past. In her right hand she supports a book in which the bearded figure History records the occurrence of events. Behind her on a great sphere is Zeus with his attributes of orb, scepter and eagle. He is shown clasping his missives of thunder and lightning.

Winged Time, with his scythe, is seen to the right near an allegorical figure representing maritime trade grasping a steering rudder & counting coins on the flat top of an urn. Ships are visible through a break in the clouds.

At the top are figures representing European nations. The crowned figure of Great Britain is obvious with appropriate armorial shield.

The winged lion who grasps a sword with one paw is often associated with St. Mark and thus Venice. The seated figure with a cap of liberty may be France and the other crowned female Spain.

The large obelisk clad with medallions has a female figure of the Holy Roman Emperor at the base, clad in ermine gown with olive wreath on head and dangling a cluster of portrait medals.