Catalog Archive
Auction 189, Lot 643

"Africae Dei Mater Alicubi Nota & Haec Ibidem Benefica", Scherer, Heinrich

Subject: Africa

Period: 1699 (dated)

Publication: Atlas Novus, Part III

Color: Hand Color

Size:
13.9 x 9.1 inches
35.3 x 23.1 cm
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While this map is primarily focused on Africa, it also covers much of Europe, the Arabian Peninsula, the South Atlantic, and most of Brazil and the Caribbean Islands. The Christian theme of this map of Africa is boldly presented in the graphic illustration of a Jesuit and a native African kneeling before the Virgin Mary and Jesus. The map itself is a fine example of the state of geographic knowledge (or lack thereof) at the beginning of the 18th century. The continent is presented with a fairly accurate coastline, but most of the interior is entirely fictional. The Nile is shown in the traditional manner with its source in the large southern lakes of Zaflan and Zembre.. The Zembre also labeled Lac Zaire, spawns the Congo and Zaire Rivers as well. The locations of Catholic churches and missions are prominently shown. A missionary ship is shown off the coast of Brazil.

References: Betz #169; Shirley (BL Atlases) T.SHER-1a #38.

Condition: A

Near fine.

Estimate: $500 - $650

Sold for: $350

Closed on 9/14/2022

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