This is the first edition of one of the more interesting 18th century maps of North America. An extensive network of rivers and lakes in the northern regions strongly suggest the possibility of a Northwest Passage. On the northwest coast is the gigantic, and entirely mythical Sea of the West, near modern Seattle, connected to the Pacific by the straits of Juan de Fuca and Martin d' Aguilar. New Albion is on the southwest shore of this great inland sea, which inundates virtually all of present-day British Columbia and Alberta. The British Colonies are still confined east of the Appalachian Mountains with French Louisiana stretching to the Pacific Northwest. Florida is controlled by Spain. The large, decorative title cartouche, incorporating a palm tree and grape vines, was drawn by Marillier and engraved by Berthault.

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Condition: B+

Nice impression and original color with a tiny bit of minor soil.