Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 2.
Ortelius' rendition, one of the edition in his
“Theatrum orbis Terrarum”
(here much
enlarged to
Jenkinson's original copy above - size of the map see in text). From Wrocław University Library
cartographic collection
Characteristic feature of the genuine copy of the map in question is its unusually rich
decorativeness. It is undoubtedly worth wider discussion. The variety of the content of the
map we can study is especially interesting. There are ethnographic, religious, military and
historical elements. Finally, the map can be examined in respect of its rich fauna, too. These
features make the map an outstanding document of the epoch of the territory portrayed
here. The decorative border with metal design is an additional element which makes the
map even more interesting. We can find the special value of the map in the numerous texts
distributed all over it. These decorative elements are of historical value, too. Mentioned texts
are boxed in different cartouches.
The author of the map in question - Anthony Jenkinson (1525/29/30?-1611) is one of the first
English travelers, and simultaneously a member of the founded in the years 1552-1553 and
chartered in 1555 Muscovy Company. The Company, the society of the English merchants
has been later called the Russia Company, English Trading Company, Company of
Merchant Adventures or differently. Its purpose was to penetrate and to explore the north-
east sea passage to reach China and India.
Sebastian Cabot (ca. 1482 - 1557), Robert Thorn (1492-1532) and John Dee (1527-1608) were
the first who became the impellers of this enterprise. As already mentioned, Jenkinson was
