This handsome English world map was published during a period of extensive exploration and rapid geographical discoveries. Senex has used an unusual devise to show a comparison of new and old cartography; the out-dated concepts are lightly engraved and left uncolored. California is presented as an island on the main double hemisphere map, and shown as a peninsula in two small projections; reflecting the controversy of the island theory that was still prominent in cartographic circles at this time. The map includes four hemispherical projections in the corners, zonal projections, and an armillary sphere flanked by Hercules and Ulysses. The top of the map is filled with an extravagant panorama of allegorical figures representing the known continents: Europe is surrounded by accoutrements of learning and art; Asia with a censer filled with exotic incense; while Africa and America hold a scorpion and a bow, respectively. The cartouche notes that the map was revised by John Senex. However, we have not been able to identify an earlier edition of the map and all available catalog records attribute only Senex. The map was dedicated to George, Prince of Wales (1714-1721).

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Condition: B

A nice impression on a sheet with some soiling and a couple of repairs to the upper margin.