This cartographic curiosity shows Europe in a female shape. The map of Europe as a woman is very uncommon and follows the tradition of depicting Europe as a regal queen but with an interesting twist. This image demotes Europa from a queen to a homely middle-aged housewife. The figure is superimposed over a map that includes a fair amount of detail. The Iberian Peninsula forms the head with a matronly cap. Italy is her left arm that holds a cup (Sicily) that she is stirring with a pair of sheers held in her right hand (Corsica and Sardinia). Her scarf forms Britain, and the rest of the continent is encompassed in her flowing dress. In her article "The Female Landscape," Darby Lewes describes the image as "anti-Napoleonic," but given its publication date and historical context, it is likely that the map's satirical intent is more generalized. Engraved by Hendrik Klockhoff.

References: Lewes (Mercator's World Vol. 4, No. 1) pp. 34-41.

Condition: A

A crisp impression with full contemporary color, issued folding on a sheet with a coat of arms watermark with the initials "D & C B" and minor marginal toning.