"Nova, et Integra Universi Orbis Descriptio," is a map created by Oronce Finé that was published in Paris in 1531. The map aimed to provide a new and comprehensive description of the entire world, incorporating the geographical knowledge of the time.
Finé's map featured a unique projection known as the cordiform or heart-shaped projection. It presented the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa in a relatively accurate manner, although there were still some inaccuracies and unknown regions, particularly in the Americas.
The map also included various elements such as depictions of cities, rivers, mountains, and other geographical features. It was one of the earliest maps to feature an oval-shaped cartouche, which contained descriptive text about the map and its author.
Oronce Finé's "Nova, et Integra Universi Orbis Descriptio" is considered an important contribution to the history of cartography, as it showcased the evolving understanding of the world during the Renaissance. It represented the culmination of Finé's expertise in mathematics and geography and contributed to the dissemination of geographical knowledge in 16th-century Europe.
Oronce Finé (1494-1555) was a French mathematician, cartographer, and publisher during the Renaissance period. He made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, astronomy, and geography.
Finé was born in Briançon, France, and later moved to Paris, where he studied mathematics and astronomy. He became known for his expertise in these fields and was appointed as the royal professor of mathematics by King Francis I of France.
As a cartographer, Finé produced numerous maps and atlases, which were highly regarded for their accuracy and artistic beauty. He incorporated the latest geographical knowledge into his works and made advancements in map projection techniques. His maps often featured intricate details, including illustrations of cities, mountains, rivers, and other landmarks.
One of Finé's notable works is the "Protomathesis," a treatise on mathematics that he published in 1532. It covered various mathematical topics, including geometry, trigonometry, and astronomy, and was widely influential in Europe.
Finé also collaborated with other renowned scholars of his time, such as Gerardus Mercator, to exchange ideas and improve the accuracy of their maps. He played a significant role in the development of cartography during the 16th century, contributing to the growing understanding of the world's geography.
Oronce Finé's contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and cartography have left a lasting impact on these fields. His works continue to be studied and appreciated by scholars and map enthusiasts to this day.
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