Subject: Southeast Asia
Period: 1606 (circa)
Publication: Gerardi Mercatoris Atlas sive Cosmographicae…
Color: Hand Color
Size:
19.3 x 14 inches
49 x 35.6 cm
This distinctive map is one of the earliest Dutch maps to focus on the region covering the Indian peninsula, through Burma and Thailand, to the Philippines and extending to the tip of the Malaysian peninsula with parts of Borneo and Sumatra. Elegantly engraved with a wave-patterned sea, a galleon, a sampan, and a sea monster. Inland the dominate feature is the mythical Chiamai Lacus, from which five rivers flow, and two other spurious lakes in central China. One of the most interesting & unusual features of the Malay peninsula is its dissection in two, the southern part becoming an island just south of Malacca. Further embellished with three fine strapwork cartouches. French text on verso.
References: Suarez, Fig. 111.
Condition: B+
Nice impression and original color in the distinctive color palatte of the early Hondius editions. A few short separations along centerfold that have been expertly repaired. One minute tear in upper border, only visible when held up to light. The margins have been slightly trimmed but are still ample.