Subject: Western Africa
Period: 1640 (circa)
Publication:
Color: Hand Color
Size:
20.3 x 15 inches
51.6 x 38.1 cm
One of the most graphic and beautiful maps covering the coast from Sierra Leone to Gabon. The land is filed with animals and the sea is decorated with ships, sea monsters and compass roses. The large title cartouche features a native couple and three apes, one of which strongly resembles a human. To the left of the title, two child-like sea creatures are carrying a large elephant tusk, representing the flourishing ivory trade. French text on verso. A lovely example.
References: Goss (Blaeu) #63; Norwich #315.
Condition: B+
Fine impression and color on hand laid paper with very wide margins. This is a near fine example less a little light offsetting from rhumb lines and some surface soiling or foxing. Bright, early impression.