"[Lot of 6]", Valentyn, Francois

Six leaves from this important history of the Dutch East India Company. These includes several copper engravings of maps and views of New Guinea and the surrounding islands. Valentyn’s account detailed the discoveries of Abel Tasman in Australasia during the course of his two voyages of 1642 & 1644. These leaves are from the description of Tasman’s first voyage, which was the first to circumnavigate the Australasia region and to give it recognizable geographical limits for the first time, proving that it was not part of the great southern continent.

1) This double-page (14.5 x 11.5") has five views including one of the natives of New Guinea and four coastal views. 2) Single-page (7 x 11.5") with two views of Amsterdam Island and its natives. 3) Single-page (7 x 11.5") with two views of Anamocka (Rotterdam Island) and its natives. 4, 5 & 6) Double-pages, each with five coastal views of New Guinea and other islands. Tasman's two ships, the Heemskerck and Verhaen are depicted in each of the views and maps.

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Condition: B

Mostly very good with some faint damp stains.