Stunning, large double hemisphere showing THE ISLAND OF CALIFORNIA, and partial shorelines of western Australia and New Zealand. The exquisite scenes surrounding the map were etched by the important Dutch artist Romeyn de Hooghe. These lively scenes represent the four elements. Fire is shown by war and destruction; air by the heavens; earth by harvesting and husbandry; and water by ships, a spouting whale and mermaids. There are groups of figures tucked between the hemispheres with polar projection maps above and below.

References: Shirley #444.

Condition: A

This beautiful map has been completely restored by a very skilled conservator, repairing some small tears along the centerfold and filling scattered worm holes, with some expert facsimile. The map has been backed with Japanese tissue and has new margins added. It is a superb job of restoration.