Subject: World
Period: 1719 (dated)
Publication:
Color: Hand Color
Size:
47 x 27.8 inches
119.4 x 70.6 cm
This spectacular map on Mercator's projection is one of the largest world maps ever produced for an atlas. The cartographic details include the prominent Insular California and recent discoveries in Australasia and northern Japan. There is a large inset of the North Pole depicting the potential regions where either a Northwest, or Northeast, Passage may be found. Another inset world map shows the magnetic variations of the compass in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans based on recent English observations. The trade winds are graphically shown in the oceans and the map is filled with fascinating comments and annotations. The large title cartouche was designed by Louis Cheron and is surrounded by exotic animals and unusual male figures representing the continents: a knight for Europe; a Turkish soldier for Asia; and native warriors for both America and Africa. The map consists of 4 sheets joined. Due to its size, it is rarely found in good condition.
References:
Condition: B
Professionally backed with Japanese tissue, repaired fold separations and a couple of tears at bottom, with margins extended all around to facilitate framing. Overall a very good example of this impressive map.