This scarce map is from the first atlas to be wholly engraved, printed and published in England. The interior of the continent is filled with spurious geography, including the mythical lakes of Parime and Xarayes, as well as charming depictions of "native" animals, such as lions and a camel. The map is embellished with an elaborate heraldic cartouche and a dedication to "Right Noble George, Duke of Albemarle." The seas are teeming with ships and sea monsters. The 25 maps in the atlas were engraved by Francis Lamb, Thomas Burnford and Wenceslas Hollar. Although the map is dated 1669, Blome's Geographical Description was first published in 1670. This map is after Nicolas Sanson, who is credited in the decorative strapwork title cartouche.

Richard Blome was one of the most interesting, and most active, publishers of illustrated books in post-Restoration London. There is an excellent biography on MapForum.com.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) T.BLOM-1a #25.

Condition: B

Issued folding, now pressed on watermarked paper with light soiling and a small, professionally repaired hole in an unengraved area of map at bottom left. Very narrow margins all around.