"Aethiopia Inferior, vel Exterior…", Jansson, Jan

This was the standard map of South Africa throughout the 17th century covering the region from Congo-Zanzibar to the Cape. Jansson's version of Blaeu's nearly identical map is based on Portuguese exploration and features two large lakes in the interior. The lake from which the Zambere (Zambesi River) flows is probably based on reports of Lake Ngami, which was not conclusively discovered until the mid 19th century. The interior is filled with indigenous animals and ships sail the sea. The large title cartouche is drawn on an ox hide held up by natives, with monkeys and turtles at their feet. No text on verso.

References: Norwich #154.

Condition: B

Crisp, fine impression and attractive old color. Minor defects in wide blank margins. Trace of offsetting otherwise the map is very good to fine.