This stunning, large-scale map of South America is beautifully engraved and filled with information. A baroque cartouche incorporates a river scene, an Amazon queen, exotic animals and a treasure chest of gold and silver bars and coins. Two mythical lakes, L. Parima and Laguna de Xarayes, appear in northern and central South America respectively. On the shore of L. Parima is a note regarding the fabled town of Manoa or Del Dorado, which was believed to be the "lost city of gold." The Falklands, or Malouine Islands as named by the French, are detailed in an inset chart in the upper right corner. In the lower left, English text describes the political divisions of South America and gives a fascinating summary of its trade goods and strategic importance. For instance, of Terra Firma it is said that "The whole country abounds in Mines of Gold and Precious Stones." Another note describing the Falkland Islands comments, "As Port Egmont, is a very safe & capacious Harbour, It will become of great utility to the British Navy & even to Privateers, in any future War, to annoy the Spanish Trade in the South Sea." Printed on four sheets, joined.

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Condition: B

Original outline color. There are faint damp stains, some extraneous creasing, and light soiling primarily in the bottom left quadrant. There is a 10" tear (beginning south of Rio de la Plata and extending to western Patagonia) and a long fold separation at bottom that have both been professionally repaired.