Splendid large double hemisphere map based on De Wit's maritime world map of 1668. The map features the ISLAND OF CALIFORNIA and open-ended Great Lakes on the Sanson model. 'Hollandia Nova' is shown lacking the eastern and southeastern coast and Van Diemen's discoveries are shown in Tasmania and New Zealand. Above and below the map are polar projections, with only the tip of South America shown in the Antarctic sphere. The map is surrounded by lively allegorical scenes representing the four elements. Fire is depicted by a fierce battle scene; air by the heavens; water by ships, Neptune with his entourage and a fantastic spouting whale; and earth with harvesting and husbandry.

References: Shirley #495.

Condition: A

Expertly backed with Japanese tissue repairing a few minor tears and replacing a small area of loss at top with skilled facsimile. Fine old color, recently refreshed.