"Europa Volgens de Nieuwste Verdeeling [and] Europa, Volgens de Nieuwste Verdeeling [bound in] Geheimzinnige Toebereidselen tot eene Boertige Reis door Europa...", Bohn, Francois

This interesting work includes a general map of Europe and a corresponding cartographic curiosity showing Europe in a female shape. The map of Europe as a woman (6.6 x 9.2") is very uncommon and follows the tradition of depicting Europe as a regal queen but with an interesting twist. This image demotes Europa from a queen to a homely middle-aged housewife. The figure is superimposed over a map that includes a fair amount of detail. The Iberian Peninsula forms the head with a matronly cap. Italy is her left arm that holds a cup (Sicily) that she is stirring with a pair of sheers held in her right hand (Corsica and Sardinia). Her scarf forms Britain, and the rest of the continent is encompassed in her flowing dress. In her article "The Female Landscape," Darby Lewes describes the image as "anti-Napoleonic," but given its publication date and historical context, it is likely that the map's satirical intent is more generalized. Engraved by Hendrik Klockhoff. The general map (9.3 x 6.6") bears the same title, with the exception of the addition of a comma. The map depicts political boundaries, towns, and rivers, and extends to include Iceland, with a smoking Mt. Hekla. Engraved by G. van Baarsel. 152 pp. Octavo. Bound in thin, speckled paper boards.

References: Lewes (Mercator's World Vol. 4, No. 1) pp. 34-41.

Condition: A

Clean and bright with a binding tear that just enters the border at left on the map of Europe as a woman and a large chip in the blank margin. The text is also clean and bright with light toning along the edges. The covers are heavily worn with a few chips and tears and nearly detached. The spine is perished and the text block is loose.