This fine map is the work of Hessel Gerritsz, one of the most important Dutch cartographers of the 17th century. His cartography of South America laid the foundation for many other cartographers. The map vividly depicts the important tip of South America, key to European trade with the East Indies, with the narrow and treacherous Strait of Magellan and the recently discovered Strait le Maire. The map is oriented with north on the right and it is simply embellished with a strapwork title cartouche, compass rose, and banner containing three distance scales. This example comes from the first Dutch edition; later editions Latinize the title.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) G.LAET-1a #6.

Condition: A

A sharp impression on a bright sheet with a coat of arms watermark and very minor soiling.