Coloured map of Ireland by Gerard Mercator from a German edition of Henricus Hondius’ reissue of Mercator’s Atlas. Initially published in part III of the Atlas in 1595 one year after Mercator’s death by his son Rumold, it is the first state of the map which still bears the name of Gerard Mercator in the bottom left. As typical with Mercator maps, there is little embellishment other than in the title cartouche with emphasis given to geographical accuracy and detail. As was a common practice in the 16th and early 17th centuries, this charming map shows Ireland oriented to the west. A description of Ireland appears verso in German. A beautifully coloured example of this map with full margins, it is a strong, dark impression on heavy, stable paper in excellent condition. 32.5 cm x 41.5 cm