Visually striking and fascinating map of northern South America from the Isla Margarita in the northwest to the coast of northern Brazil near Sao Luis east of the Amazon delta. The most prominent feature of the map is the gigantic Parime Lacus, the legendary lake said to lie at the base of a mountain of gold. The fabled city of Manoa, o el Dorado, or the golden city of the Incas, is located on its northwestern shore. The search for this city led many explorers, including Sir Walter Raleigh, on wild adventures through the jungles. A recent discovery may have uncovered geological evidence of the existence of a large lake at the foothills of the rich gold producing mountains in the State of Roraima in northern Brazil. That lake is thought to have dried up approximately 700 years ago. The map is beautifully decorated with three cartouches, ships, sea battles, monsters and a fine compass rose. Blank verso.

References: Map Forum #2, pp. 64-65.

Condition: B

Lovely original color. Light uneven toning with a few spots of foxing. Bottom fold separation in blank margin.