"Asiae Status Naturalis…", Scherer, Heinrich

This interesting map appeared in one of the earliest thematic atlases and shows the distribution and types of fauna in Asia. The stunning cartouche features an elephant, lion, camel, monkeys and exotic birds. Monstrous fish adorn the oceans, and various animals are scattered across the continent. Geographically the map is very imaginative with a bulbous Iedso (Hokkaido) attached to Honshu by a narrow isthmus, and Compagnie Land and Staten Eyland to the north of Hokkaido. Nova Zemba is shown as an island; whereas early cartographers typically depicted only the southern and western coastlines reflecting the discoveries of Barents and Linschoten. The Caspian Sea is depicted with a curious oval shape, and the mythical Lac Chiamay is shown with its five south-flowing rivers. In South East Asia Terra dos Papous is separated form New Guinea, I. Celebes (Sulawesi) is far too close to Borneo, and a portion of Australia (Nova Hollandia) is depicted.

References: Yeo #94.

Condition: A+

Sharp impression and fine later color.