Rare and interesting map that illustrates the European colonial possessions at the conclusion of the French and Indian War, the North American chapter of the Seven Years' War. This war ended French colonial ambitions in North America and was one of the most significant developments in a century of Anglo-French conflict. This map reflects the preliminary agreement of November 1762 and shows France still retaining Louisiana, which it ultimately ceded to Spain as compensation for Spain's loss of Florida. The map covers from Greenland to the northern coast of South America, excluding only the unexplored western regions of North America. The British Colonies are shown with their western boundaries along the Mississippi River. The important trade routes are shown in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. A large table at left lists the European settlements as proposed by the "Preliminary Articles, signed at Fontainebleau; by the Ministers of Great Britain, France and Spain - 3rd of November 1762." The map is adorned with a title cartouche that features the female representation of America and a sailing ship.

The Universal Museum was a very short-lived British periodical published between 1762 and 1764. Maps from this publication are rarely seen on the market and we can find no record of this map except in a few institutional collections. It would be an important addition to any American map collection.

References: Jolly UMUS-10; Phillips (M) p. 579 & 1056.

Condition: B+

Issued folding, now flattened with the binding trim at lower right replaced to accommodate framing, and a 1" binding tear neatly repaired.