Catalog Archive
Auction 160, Lot 391

"Cuba Insula et Iamaica", Wytfliet, Cornelis

Subject: Cuba & Jamaica

Period: 1598 (circa)

Publication: Histoire Universelle des Indes Occidentales et Orientales

Color: Black & White

Size:
11.3 x 9 inches
28.7 x 22.9 cm
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This is one of only two Caribbean maps in this important work, which was the first atlas dedicated to the New World. It provides an important, early view of Cuba and Jamaica with the Cayman Islands located between them. A bit of Hispaniola is also included. Even though Cuba was among the earliest European discoveries in the region, the cartographic information disseminated was often incorrect and confusing. It was not until Ortelius' map of 1579 that Havana was correctly shown on the north coast, even though it had been founded in 1514 by Spanish conquistadors and named after a local Indian chief, San Cristobal de Habana. This map shows Havana in the correct location but also includes St. Christophori in its primitive location on Cuba's southwestern coast. The handsome map is embellished with a large strapwork title cartouche and a fully engraved moiré-patterned sea.

References: Cueto #16; Kapp (MCC-42) #5.

Condition: B+

A dark impression with several minor printer's creases and two light stains in the image. Professionally backed with tissue.

Estimate: $950 - $1,200

Sold for: $600

Closed on 11/16/2016

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