"Atlas Elemental Moderno, O Coleccion de Mapas, para Ensenar a los Nino…", Lopez de Vargas Machuca, Thomas (don)

This is a scarce Spanish atlas by Lopez de Vargas Machuca (1730-1802), Geographer to the King of Spain. It is complete with 22 double page and 5 fold out copper engraved maps, all but the first two with original outline color. The maps include two celestial; one world, 12 European; three Asian; three African; four American (North America, United States, Caribbean, South America), ancient Israel; and ancient Mediterranean. The fascinating map of North America depicts the entire northwest coast as a mostly straight line with no hint of Alaska. The Northwest Passage is evident with a complicated river and lake system flowing to the Pacific. At right is a table listing the states and territories of Spain and the United States. A simple but elegant, engraved title page graces the front of the atlas and is followed by 24 pages of text and the 27 maps. 8vo. Original hardbound in full calf with gilt title on spine and marbled endpapers inside.

References: Phillips (A) #677

Condition: B

Text and maps good but with wormholes traveling from spine into pages at top and bottom centerfolds. Contents still tight and clean with only occasional minor damp staining and residual printer's ink on several plates. Covers show minor scuffing and bumping along edges and corners. Still a very desirable and scarce Spanish atlas.