"Peruviae Auriferae Regionis Typus [on sheet with] La Florida [and] Guastecan Reg.", Ortelius, Abraham

When first issued in 1584, this was one of the few sixteenth century maps based on Spanish sources; in this case drawn from reports of Hernando de Soto's expedition through the region. There are three maps on this sheet. The most important map (La Florida) is the first printed map of the southeastern portion of the United States. This influential map provided the foundation cartography for the region, particularly in the depiction of the river system. The map below (Guastecan Reg) combines with La Florida to extend the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico further south. The third is a map of Peru, where De Soto was the first Spaniard to meet Inca Emperor Atahuallpa. In the north of the map of Peru is Aurea Regio, or Kingdom of Gold, a reference to the fabled El Dorado. All maps contain decorative cartouches, and the map of Peru is embellished with two ships. Italian text on verso from an edition after 1606 when the lower left corner of the copper plate broke off.

References: Burden #57; Cumming (SE) #5; Van den Broecke #15.

Condition: A

Gorgeous color with two light spots, one in centerfold, away from any map, and another in upper, blank margin.