A fine map by Hessel Gerritsz, whose cartography of South America laid the foundation for many other cartographers. This map focuses on the Paraguay River basin and its tributaries, and extends to the western coast of Peru, including Lake Titicaca. The Rio de la Plata is boldly shown with many large islands in the broad river. The mythical Lago de los Xarayes is featured on the map, which was believed to connect the Rio de la Plata and Amazon River systems. It is finely engraved with mountains, rivers and forests and depicts numerous small villages. Several towns are named including Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Potosi and Cuszco. The strapwork title cartouche, scale of miles and compass rose make it a very attractive map.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) G.LAET-1a #7.

Condition: B+

Watermarked paper with minor toning, light soiling, and several short centerfold separations that have been archivally repaired on verso. In top blank margin there is light show-through of old manuscript text on verso.