ANTIQUORUM AFRICAE EPISCOPA TUUM GEOGRAPHIA DESCRIPTIO – 1640 – NORTHERN AFRICA

Cartographer: Melchior Tavernier
Publisher: Nicolas Sanson
Price: £95
Publication Date: circa 1668 but dated 1640
Edition: Not stated
Format: Copper engraving
Condition: In good only condition, unframed
Sheet Size: 57.8cm x 43cm

Condition:

Parissis Aput M. Tavernier Scalptorem Regium & Excusorem Tabularum Geographicarum Hydrographicarum in Insula Palatij ad insigne Spaerae Regio Anno 1640 Cum Privilegio Regis. printed on undated water-marked paper. Original fold lines and early hand-colouring. Very minor age-spots. Old repairs to the reverse which affects the base of the map. Reverse is blank with age toning and minor marks. In good only condition.

Location: Map Drawer C: FS: Folder M2000 002526

A Geographic Description of the Ancient Bishoprics of Africa: A Short Description

The title “Antiquorum Africae Episcopatuum Geographica Descriptio” translates from Latin as “A Geographic Description of the Ancient Bishoprics of Africa.” This 1640 map is a historical cartographic depiction focused on the ecclesiastical geography of ancient Africa, specifically detailing the locations and boundaries of bishoprics and dioceses during the early Christian period, primarily under Roman influence.

Description of the Map

1. Content:
   • The map illustrates the region of North Africa, encompassing territories that were central to early Christianity, such as Proconsular Africa, Numidia, and Mauretania (modern-day Tunisia, Algeria, and parts of Libya and Morocco).
   • It identifies the locations of ancient bishoprics, cities, and significant religious centres, including Carthage, which was a major hub of Christian theological development and home to figures such as St. Augustine.
2. Purpose:
   • This map was likely created to document the Christian ecclesiastical framework in Africa during Late Antiquity and the early Middle Ages, reflecting the widespread influence of the Church in Roman Africa.
   • It emphasises the historical significance of Africa as a centre of Christian theology, monasticism, and doctrinal debates, such as those surrounding the Donatist controversy.
3. Style and Artistic Features:
   • The map is a blend of geography and art, featuring intricate illustrations such as cartouches, compass roses, and decorative borders. These embellishments reflect the cartographic style of the early modern period, where maps served as both informational tools and works of art.
   • Latin inscriptions and place names dominate the map, showcasing the scholarly approach of the time.
4. Historical Context:
   • By 1640, North Africa’s role as a major Christian region was a subject of historical interest. The spread of Islam in the 7th century had largely replaced Christianity in the region, but its earlier prominence remained a topic of theological and academic study.
   • This map would have been used by scholars, theologians, and clerics as a reference to understand the historical spread and organisation of Christianity.
5. Significance:
   • Maps like this underscore the interconnectedness of geography and religion during the early modern period. They highlight the enduring legacy of Roman and early Christian influence on Africa and the interest in tracing the roots of the Church.
   • It serves as a testament to the role of cartography in preserving and interpreting historical narratives.

Conclusion

The “Antiquorum Africae Episcopatuum Geographica Descriptio” is more than a geographic map; it is a historical document that captures the ecclesiastical and cultural landscape of ancient North Africa. It reflects the scholarly and religious priorities of the 17th century, offering insight into how early modern Europe viewed and valued the Christian past of Africa.

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