A superb map of the Roman Empire covering most of Europe, Northern Africa, and the Near and Middle East. The map is richly decorated with two strapwork cartouches and two portraits. The cartouche in the lower section of the map contains a brief account of Roman dominion. On full sheet of English text (8.5 x 12.5") with text on verso.

At the beginning of the 17th century, Samuel Purchas, an English cleric, set out to publish a compendium of voyages to foreign countries. To illustrate his work, Purchase obtained the rights to use Jodocus Hondius' copperplates from Atlas Minor. Over 60 maps were included in Purchas His Pilgrimes, most of which were from Hondius' plates, with English titles inserted above them. Purchas also had a few additional maps engraved, including those for India, China, Greenland, North America, and Nova Scotia.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) G.PUR-1a #5.

Condition: B

Light text show through with one small spot in the title cartouche and a few small damp stains confined to the blank margins.