Subject: Africa
Period: 1611 (circa)
Publication: Gerardi Mercatoris Atlas sive Cosmographicae…
Color: Hand Color
Size:
19.6 x 14.7 inches
49.8 x 37.3 cm
In 1606 Jodocus Hondius acquired the copperplates of Mercator's Atlas, to which he added thirty-seven of his own composition, and republished this enormously influential atlas. His map of Africa strongly reflects Mercator's style with the moiré style engraving to denote the oceans and large handsome cartouche of interlocking strap design. It is also geographically based on Mercator with updates from many sources including Pigafetta, Ramusio, De Barros, and Linschoten. The eastern coastline, particularly that of Madagascar, is considerably altered. Hondius improved the southern tip by inserting Saldanha Bay and Cape False and discarding Cayneca. The map is embellished with several sailing ships, sea monsters, and a large strapwork cartouche. Latin text on verso, published between 1611-12.
References: Betz #52; Norwich #27; Van der Krogt (Vol. I) #8600:1B.
Condition: B+
A nice impression with full original color on watermarked paper. There is minor toning and a centerfold separation in bottom blank margin, away from map.