Plan of an Island Used in the Slave Trade to the Americas
"Plan de l'Isle de Gore avec Ses Fortifications", Bellin/Van Schley
Subject: Goree Island
Period: 1765 (circa)
Publication: Prevost's Histoire Generale des Voyages
Color: Hand Color
Size:
10.7 x 7.8 inches
27.2 x 19.8 cm
A plan of Goree Island, which is located on the west coast of Africa, to the southeast of Cape Verde peninsula in the harbor of Dakar, Senegal. This strategically located island was used for the ivory, gold, and slave trade to and from Africa and the Americas. The island was first fortified by the Dutch in the early 17th century, and later seized by the French in 1677 to be used as their slave trading center to the Indies. The plan shows the extensive fortifications with Fort St. Michel, Fort St. Francois, and several supporting batteries. Decorated with a French style cartouche, compass rose and rhumb lines, with a key to the map at left. Engraved by Van Schley.
References:
Condition: B+
A nice impression with attractive color on watermarked paper with light toning.
