Catalog Archive
Auction 128, Lot 119

"L'Amerique Septentrionale Dressee sur les Observations de Mrs. de l'Academie Royale des Sciences…", Delisle/Covens & Mortier

Subject: North America

Period: 1730 (circa)

Publication: Atlas Nouveau…

Color: Hand Color

Size:
23 x 17.8 inches
58.4 x 45.2 cm
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This is Pierre Mortier's re-engraved version of Delisle's foundation map of North America. It is nearly identical to the Delisle map, with California returned to its peninsular position rather than as an island. C. Mendocin is the farthest northern point on California, and the north portion of the continent is left blank. The Great Lakes are well-defined, based on Coronelli, with French forts noted. The English settlements are confined east of the Alleghenies, and Spanish forts are clustered around Santa Fe. The Mississippi River valley is well developed with recent French settlements. The first mention of what would be called the Sargasso Sea is noted in the North Atlantic. The map is decorated with an aquatic-themed figural cartouche and a draped scale of miles. A beautiful example.

References: Tooley (Amer) p.19, #33; cf Wheat [TMW] #79.

Condition: A+

Absolutely stunning example with strong impression and fine coloring on a thick sheet with wide margins. Short split in lower margin at centerfold, professionally closed on verso.

Estimate: $1,500 - $2,000

Unsold

Closed on 5/20/2009

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