Catalog Archive
Auction 115, Lot 85

"Novissima et Accuratissima Septentrionalis ac Meridionalis Americae…", Wit, Frederick de

Subject: Western Hemisphere

Period: 1710 (circa)

Publication: Atlas Maior

Color: Hand Color

Size:
22.7 x 19.3 inches
57.7 x 49 cm
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This is the final state of this great map of the Americas, originally engraved in 1670, and updated with the addition of New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Quiri Regio, Fretum Aniani and Terra Esonis. While the decorative features follow Visscher, the cartography is largely based on Sanson. California is an Island, the Great Lakes are open-ended in the west, and the R. del Norte flows from a large western lake into the Mare Vermio. De Wit also changed the large title cartouche slightly so that the chief is standing under an umbrella on the left supervising what appears to be a mining scene. The upper cartouche depicts two angels helping a Native American to heaven while a devil falls away. The sheet is further embellished with native animals in the north and a village and battle scene in South America. Published by Pieter Mortier.

References: McLaughlin #49, Tooley (America) p.120 #33.

Condition: B

Fine impression and original color. Repair of 2" tear entering map at right just below the equator and another repaired tear on bottom centerfold, neither of which are noticeable except on close inspection.

Estimate: $1,900 - $2,200

Sold for: $1,400

Closed on 6/21/2006

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