Catalog Archive
Auction 126, Lot 444

"A Map of the Icy Sea in Which the Several Communications with the Land Waters and Other New Discoveries are Exhibited", Gibson, John

Subject: Arctic

Period: 1760 (published)

Publication: Gentleman's Magazine

Color: Black & White

Size:
7.8 x 7.8 inches
19.8 x 19.8 cm
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Based on the work of Jean Palairet, this is a very interesting map of the Northern Hemisphere and the Icy Great North Sea surrounding the North Pole. Shows the West Sea and other myths in the Northwest part of North America, and notes that a Dutch ship reached 80° north latitude in 1670. Contrary to custom, Europe is located at left with America on the right. The course of the imaginary Northwest Passage is depicted from Portugal to Japan. Highly distorted landmasses, including a huge single island where the Aleutians are today, is noted as being discovered in 1753. Still bound in the original and complete June 1760 issue (48 pp.) with related article.

References: Jolly GENT-141.

Condition: A+

The map has the faintest of offsetting, still fine. Likewise the pages of the magazine are clean and bright. Signatures are starting.

Estimate: $200 - $250

Sold for: $120

Closed on 12/3/2008

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