"Hispaniae Novae Sivae Magnae, Recens et Vera Descriptio", Ortelius, Abraham

This is the first state of this important map, depicting the central and western coastal regions of Mexico. This cornerstone map of New Spain was the prototype for most maps of the early 17th century. It covers the Pacific coast from present-day Acapulco to about Mazatlan and inland to Mexico City, which is situated on a large lake. Several gold and silver mines are located in the central region. The map is beautifully embellished with three ornate strapwork cartouches and two sailing ships. Latin text on verso, published in 1579.

References: Wagner #119; Van den Broecke #13.

Condition: A

There is light soiling primarily confined to the blank margins and a couple of faint stains that just pass the neatline at top. An edge tear in the bottom blank margin has been repaired with old paper on verso and a centerfold separation at bottom has been repaired with old paper on recto.