Cantino's Map

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t is unanimously regarded as the most beautiful among Renaissance geographical maps bearing witness to the discovery of America. It was manufactured and illuminated in Portugal in 1502, right after Columbus' and Vespucci's voyages. It is drawn on six sheets of vellum joined together to make a single 105 x 220 cm sheet. It was probably commissioned by ambassador Alberto Cantino to supply the Duke of Ferrara with documents showing the new dimensions of the world and the importance of the latest geographical discoveries.

This new edition of the map is promoted by the Italian Ministry of Culture. The case, sized 110 x 16 x 16 cm, contains the facsimile map, in the same size as the original, the certificate of authenticity and the commentary volume.

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