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Gerardus Mercator, Flemish cartographer C018 / 7016
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Gerardus Mercator, Flemish cartographer C018 / 7016
Gerardus Mercator (1512-1594). 1870 engraving of the Flemish cartographer, philosopher and mathematician Gerardus Mercator, measuring a globe with a pair of dividers. Mercator, born Gerard de Kremer, is considered the founder of modern cartography. He is best known for his world map of 1569, in which he plotted meridians of longitude as parallel instead of converging at the poles. This allowed navigators to plot their course as a straight line of constant heading, corresponding to a great circle on the globe. He was also the first to use the term Atlas for a collection of maps
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Media ID 9235765
© Bildagentur-online/Tschanz/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1870 Atlas Belgian Black And White Caliper Calipers Cartographer Dividers Dutch Engraving Flemish Founder French Globe Mathematician Measuring Meridian Meridians Philosopher Portrait Surname K Surname M World Bearings Gerardus Mercator
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 1870 engraving showcases the esteemed Flemish cartographer, philosopher, and mathematician Gerardus Mercator. In this portrait, Mercator is depicted engrossed in his work as he measures a globe with a pair of dividers. Known by his birth name Gerard de Kremer, Mercator is hailed as the pioneer of modern cartography. His groundbreaking world map of 1569 revolutionized navigation by introducing parallel meridians instead of converging ones at the poles. This ingenious innovation enabled sailors to chart their course along straight lines of constant heading, corresponding to great circles on the globe. Mercator's contributions extend beyond mapping techniques; he was also responsible for coining the term "Atlas" to describe collections of maps. His legacy as a visionary scholar resonates through history. The monochrome artwork captures Mercator's intellectual prowess and determination. With an intense gaze and focused posture, he embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery that defined his era. This historical print serves as a testament to Mercator's enduring influence on geography and navigation. It offers viewers a glimpse into the mind of a brilliant man whose ideas continue to shape our understanding of the world today.
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