This uncommon map is based on Delisle's seminal charting of the French possession of Louisiana that drew together the cartographic work of the previous half century. It presents a detailed view of the Gulf region and the Mississippi, and the exploration routes of De Soto, Cavelier, Tonty, Moscoso and Denis. Numerous forts are shown throughout. At the far west is the Rio Grande with the settlements of Santa Fe, los Taos, S. Felipe and Albuquerque nearby. The large figurative cartouche shows two gentlemen negotiating a chest of coins for a stock certificate, in reference to the famous Mississippi Bubble investment scheme. The impetus for colonial expansion in the Americas came not just from governments, but also from private investors willing to invest for future profits from undiscovered riches in these new lands.

References: Tooley (Amer) p. 21.

Condition: A+

Very nice example with dark, early impression and nice later full coloring.