Bidspirit auction | Sebastian Münster Hand-Colored Woodcut Map

Sebastian Münster Hand-Colored Woodcut Map Altera Generalis - Sebastian Münster (German, 1488–1552). Hand-colored woodcut map, Altera Generalis Tab. Secundum Ptol., mid-16th century. The work depicts a classical Ptolemaic world view featuring the landmasses of Europe, Africa, and Asia. The map is encircled by twelve personified wind-heads emerging from stylized cloud scrolls, with labels including Septentrio, Zephyrus, and Auster. The print features a prominent central vertical crease consistent with its original publication as a double-page plate in an edition of Münster’s Cosmographia. It is housed in a gold-toned wooden frame with an off-white mat. Inscribed Altera Generalis Tab. Secundum Ptol. in the top margin. Sight: 11 x 14 1/8 in. Frame: 17 1/2 x 20 3/4 in. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.