This unusual and very decorative world map is presented on an oval projection. Scherer, a devout Jesuit, produced his geographical compendium to depict the Catholic hierarchy and the spread of Jesuit missions throughout the world. This map marks the travels of St. Francis Xavier with views of his ship decorating each corner. The map depicts California as an island and hints at a northwest passage. Parts of Australia and New Zealand are shown in the South Pacific. The mythical island called Compagnie Land is illustrated east of Japan, which was supposedly discovered by Jean de Gama.

References: Shirley #632.

Condition: A

Lovely color with a minute pinhole along centerfold at top and a tiny amount of soiling in bottom right blank margin.