Hondius' Important Map of the Americas

"America", Hondius, Jodocus

Jodocus Hondius' map of the Americas is one of the most elaborate examples of fine Dutch cartography. The decorations, including sea monsters, indigenous birds, native canoes and sailing vessels, are taken from De Bry's Grand Voyages. Particularly notable is the scene of natives preparing an intoxicating drink made from manioc roots, which is derived from Hans Staden's harrowing venture into Brazil. The continents are presented on a stereographic projection, which was becoming increasingly popular at the beginning on the 17th century. It presents a more correct western coastline of South America and narrows the breadth of Mexico. However, North America is still too broad and Virginia has an exaggerated coastline. Newfoundland is based on Plancius. The coastlines are fully engraved with place names.

References: Burden #150; Van der Krogt (Vol. I) #9000:1B.

Condition: B+

A nice impression with attractive color and minor soiling. There are professional repairs to a tear that just enters map border at left, a 1.5" tear adjacent to the centerfold at bottom, and a long centerfold separation.