Pair of maps making up the whole continent of Africa. The large double-sheet style is a signature of Coronelli's superb continental maps. The maps are full of topographical features and place names, and more accurate than many maps of the period. Coronelli claims to have been the first to correctly describe the source of the Nile, in Lake Tsana, Abyssinia. Beside the fascinating detail, the maps are richly decorated with scores of all kinds of animals and scenes of horsemen in combat or hunting the animals. The large title cartouche on the west sheet is surrounded by several indigenous animals including ostrich, crocodile, lions, elephant and camel. On the other sheet is a large scene in Central Africa with an angel blowing a trumpet, while another holds the corner of the tent and a scribe standing on a globe records information concerning the origin of the Nile on the side of the tent. Also included in the scene is an allegorical figure representing Father Nile with the river flowing from his overturned urn. A very colorful and fascinating map. Ref: Norwich #56. Map has been cleaned and repaired along horizontal folds, where there was some weakness and mild creasing.

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Condition: B