Ortelius, Abraham. Pontus Euxinus Aequor I(J)asonio Pulsatum remige primum. Antwerp, [1590], 1608/1612 (last line of text "alla poluere;" approx. 300 copies printed of this edition of Theatrum). Hand-colored, approx. 14 x 19.5 in. (plate size). Upper left cartouche notes that it is Ex conatibus geogrpahicus Abrahami Ortelii, "From the geographical work/efforts of Abraham Ortelius." [Vrients, J.B. Theatrum Orbis Terrarum Abrahami Ortelii. Antwerp.) "The hospitable sea, water first stirred by Jason's oar" was apparently formed catastrophically when the Mediterranean broke through the Bosporus, perhaps as little as 7,500-8000 years ago (and certainly triggering stories of a flood, if not the flood among people living on the shores of the valley). After its violent birth, the Black Sea became a hub of trade and communication, and far more hospitable to humans; the Greeks colonized the shores beginning about the 8th century BC, and the Romans continued the process half a millennium later. And at its origin, at the city of Constantinople, Europe and Asia meet. 

Property from the Collection of Dr. Fred E. Schwab, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Currently matted and shrink wrapped, although wrapping has been partially split. Map is mounted at the corners, but not laid down.