Antique Maps, Charts, Atlases and Globes for Sale at Auction

First state of this scarce world map combining both scientific and decorative cartography. The continents are shown in outline form without political detail. California is an Island, only the western and northern coastlines of Australia are shown, and New Zealand is incomplete. There is a hint of a possible Northwest Passage from Hudson Bay to the Strait of Anian. The map is richly decorated with a large allegorical cartouche and surrounded by celestial phenomena, including a comet, and solar and lunar eclipses. Three groups of cherubs are shown making astronomical observations. Above and below the map are tables naming major cities throughout the world with their respective longitude, latitude, celestial observations and eclipse information.

Very nice example with strong impression and lovely original color. Some centerfold toning, and water stains at both upper corners, else fine.


Ref: Shirley, The Map Collector 46, pp. 34-38.