This is the first state of this interesting map of the colonial possessions of England, France and Spain in North America; France is shown to occupy the largest region owing to the nationality of the cartographer. The most notable part of the map however, is the large inset map that covers the west coast and describes two remarkable cartographic misconceptions; a huge Mer de l' Ouest or Sea of the West and a Northwest Passage through a system of rivers and lakes connecting Hudson Bay with the Pacific based on the fictitious discoveries of Admiral de Font. The map is decorated with a fine title cartouche.

References: McCorkle #762.3; McGuirk #110; Pedley #449; Sellers & Van Ee #96.

Condition: A

A fine impression with wide side margins and faint toning along centerfold at bottom. A short centerfold separation at bottom does not enter map image and has been closed on verso with archival tape.