This is the Valck & Schenk edition of Job Ludolf's map covering present-day Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Somalia. Ludolf's map was issued in 1681 in his important Historia Aethiopia, and "helped to disprove Ptolemy's belief that the Nile begins in the Mountains of the Moon" (Betz). Instead Ludolf shows the Blue Nile originating in Goijam (a century before James Bruce's discoveries) and then heading through the southern end of Lake Tana before turning north. In addition to its cartographical significance, the map presents a fascinating visual of rivers, rugged mountains, and wild animals including elephants, lions, tigers, elk (?), ostriches, and more. Decorated by 4 cartouches, a compass rose, and sailing ships in the Arabian Sea.

References: Betz, p. 432.

Condition: A

A crisp impression with full contemporary color. There is a hint of toning along the centerfold and a short centerfold separation confined to the top blank margin.