This magnificent engraving is a testament to Coronelli's ability to bring Venice to the forefront of the map publishing trade. Coronelli, royal cosmographer of the Republic of Venice, visited Paris in 1681-3, where he had access to court documents including the manuscripts of La Salle. Upon his return to Venice in 1684, he founded a geographical society, which provided funding for his atlas, first published in 1690. Marsili, Archbishop of Bologna, to whom the map was dedicated, was affiliated with this society. On the map, the Great Lakes region is most accurate, but CALIFORNIA IS AN ISLAND, and the Mississippi exits into the Gulf too far to the west. The map is richly embellished with illustrations of the native inhabitants and their customs. Large title cartouche with figures and two smaller cartouches. Pair of maps (each 17.7 x 24"), with each consisting of two joined sheets. $8,000 RESERVE

References: Wheat, #70; Tooley (America), p. 125, #57; McLaughlin, #103.

Condition: A+

A very fine impression in excellent condition.