This superb map of China, Korea, and Japan is the only carte-a-figures map made of the region. The Great Wall protects the Kingdom of China from a variety of evil creatures that occupy The Desert Lop, and the rest of the kingdom is delineated by a long range of mountains in the west that separates it from The Kingdome of Bramas. Korea is a long island and Japan is presented on the Ortelius-Teixeira model. The decorative panel at top features bird's-eye plans of Macao (copied from De Bry) and Quinzay (Hangzhou) along with scenes depicting ingeniously crafted wind-carts and their manner of execution (crucifixion). The inhabitants of the region are shown at sides, including a very early depiction of a Japanese soldier. There are interesting notes throughout the map on various historical and mythical aspects of the region, including where men are seduced by wonderful illusions and where fireproof cloth is woven. The English text on verso provides an equally fascinating description of Chinese culture. Dated in the cartouche 1626, published circa 1676 with the imprint of Basset and Chiswell at bottom right.

References: Cortazzi, plt. 29; Manasek #56; Shirley (BL Atlases) T.SPE-2a #19.

Condition: B+

A sharp impression on watermarked paper with a few light spots, minor printer's ink residue, and a pair of small wormholes brushing against the neatline at bottom. There is light toning along the sheet's edges.