This was one of the few sixteenth century maps based on Spanish sources; in this case drawing from reports of Hernando de Soto's expedition through the region. There are three maps on this sheet. The most important map, La Florida, is the first printed map of the southern portion of the United States. This influential map provided the foundation cartography for the region, particularly in the depiction of the river systems. The map below (Guastecan Reg) combines with La Florida to extend the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico further south. The third is a map of Peru, where De Soto was the first Spaniard to meet Inca Emperor Atahuallpa. In the north of the map of Peru is Aurea Regio, or Kingdom of Gold, a reference to the fabled El Dorado. All maps contain decorative cartouches, and the map of Peru is embellished with two ships. French text on verso.

References: Burden #57; Cumming (SE) #5; Van den Broecke #15.

Condition: A

A dark impression on paper with a horn watermark. There is some printer's ink residue, several minor creases adjacent to the centerfold at bottom, and light toning along the edges of the sheet. An old manuscript page number is in bottom blank margin.