Peutinger Map (300 – 330 CE?)
Large maps of the Roman world were made from A’ time onwards, but only
one survives – as a copy produced in 11 segments ca 1200 CE, and missing its western
end (Codex Vindob. 324). Copying slips are detectible, together with minimal modifications
reflecting Christian belief, but overall this survival seems a faithful reproduction of the
original. There is no clue to the identity or work-site of the mapmaker(s). His date is
also uncertain, although the absence of Christian influence and the ample reflection of
Late Roman tastes suggest the early 4th c. There could be no finer articulation of the
Tetrarchy’s ideals in map form: a seamless, stable, united world – with Rome conspicu-
ously at its center – under Roman sway and readily accessible everywhere overland. In
his presentation of physical landscape and his placement of principal settlements, the
mapmaker demonstrates a geographical awareness which must derive from the Hel-
lenistic tradition inspired by E. Within this landscape he deftly integrates a
comprehensive assemblage (how and where obtained?) of route data from the Roman
Empire and even far beyond to the East; about 2,700 places and associated distance
figures are marked.
Whether this combination of elements is innovatory remains unclear. The same applies
to the bold choice of map frame, no more than 34 cm tall by perhaps 850 long. It was only
possible to span Britannia to Taprobane thus by virtual abandonment of a north-south
dimension, compression of the Mediterranean and Black Seas into narrow channels, and
manipulation of principal landmasses to appear at different scales (the heartland of Italy
especially large, Persian territory eastwards small). The ingenious mapmaker accomplishes
these feats, and handles line-work, symbols, lettering, and palette, with a mastery that recalls
Rome’s Marble Plan (ca 200 CE), and presupposes a mature cartographic tradition. With its
indifference to up-to-date information or direct routes, the map appears not so much a
practical guide for travelers as a colorful display piece for, say, a palace wall, possibly just one
component of a greater artwork. It is inviting on various levels. From afar, the main regions
and their names stand out; close up, the unfamiliar worldview and the richness of detail
both intrigue and delight the learned.
Richard Talbert, “Cartography and taste in Peutinger’s Roman map,” in Idem and K. Brodersen, edd.,
Space in the Roman World: its Perception and Presentation (2004) 113–141.
Richard Talbert
Phaeinos (460 – 430 BCE)
Astronomer, a metic in Athens, who observed solstices from Mt. Lukabettos and taught
M astronomy (-T, De signis 4), as well as, perhaps, a Babylonian
version of the 19-year Metonic cycle, but the text does not require this suggestion.
DSB 9.339, G.J. Toomer.
Henry Mendell
Phaiax (490 – 470 BCE)
Civil engineer in Akragas, designed and supervised the construction of an elaborate water
distribution and canal system at Akragas, built (among other projects) by prisoners of war
from the Greek victory over the Carthaginians at Himera (480 BCE: D S
PEUTINGER MAP