Speed's Popular Carte-a-Figures Map of the Americas - First State

"America with Those Known Parts in That Unknowne Worlde Both People and Manner of Buildings Discribed and Inlarged", Speed, John

This English map of the Americas is the earliest folio atlas map to depict California as an island, thus propagating one of the most enduring cartographic myths. It is also significant for its accurate depiction of the coast between Chesapeake and Cape Cod, and early portrayal of the English colonies, Iames Citti (Jamestown) and Plymouth. Boston and Long Island are not shown. The spurious islands of Brasil and Frisland still appear in the Atlantic. An inset map shows Greenland and Iceland. The map is the superb workmanship of the Dutch engraver, Abraham Goos. It is decorated in the popular carte-a-figures style with panels of costumed native figures at each side and vignettes of major cities at top. The figures at left represent the native people of North America, and at right the major South American tribes. The cities illustrated include Havana, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Cusco, and other important South American settlements. A number of sea monsters, flying fish and sailing ships also decorate the map. Dated in the cartouche 1626, published in either the 1627 or 1631 editions with the imprint of George Humble in the cartouche below title. English text on verso.

References: Burden #217; McLaughlin #3; Tooley (Amer) p. 113, #2; Shirley (BL Atlases) T.SPE-2a #5.

Condition: A

A fine, early impression with attractive color on watermarked paper and minor show-through of text on verso. Professionally remargined at top with old paper.