Ogilby describes the Africans as “unlearned.” However, he makes some interesting comments pertaining to the difference between the native Africans and the Dutch settlers at Cape Town. “In kindness and fidelity towards their neighbors, they shame the Dutch, and all other Europeans, because whatsoever one hath, they willingly and readily impart to others, be it little or much”(Ogilby, London 1670). The other volumes, America (1671) and Britannia (1675) are not on display.

At a glance

The exhibition showcases one of the largest collections of African antiquarian maps in the world and runs until August 1, 2004. Through June 9 the exhibit is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. For holiday hours and for hours after June 9, call (650) 723-0931.

View the collection online

The Norwich Collection has been fully digitized and can be viewed online by downloading a program called Luna Insight at http://library.stanford.edu/depts/hasrg/hdis/insight.html#download

Credits

^{Stanford University Libraries, Department of Special Collections.}
The Rediscovery of Africa, 1400-1900: Antique Maps & Rare Images <sup>catalogue by William Jacobson

Library of Congress
All factual information about Abraham Ortelius and the Theatrum Orbis Terrarum collected from the Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress, memory.loc.gov
Africa by John Ogilby</sup>