The First Printed Map of the Southern United States

"Peruviae Auriferae Regionis Typus. Didaco Mendezio Auctore [on sheet with] La Florida. Auctore Hieron. Chiaves [and] Guastecan Reg.", Ortelius, Abraham

This was one of the few sixteenth century maps based on Spanish sources; in this case drawing from reports of Hernando de Soto's expedition through the region. There are three maps on this sheet. The most important map, La Florida, is the first printed map of the southern portion of the United States. This influential map provided the foundation cartography for the region, particularly in the depiction of the river system. The map below (Guastecan Reg) combines with La Florida to extend the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico further south. The third is a map of Peru, where De Soto was the first Spaniard to meet Inca Emperor Atahuallpa. In the north of the map of Peru is Aurea Regio, or Kingdom of Gold, a reference to the fabled El Dorado. All maps contain decorative cartouches, and the map of Peru is embellished with two ships. French text on verso.

References: Burden #57; Cumming (SE) #5; Van den Broecke #15.

Condition: A

A sharp impression on a bright sheet with the horn coat of arms watermark commonly found on Ortelius maps and a few minor marginal spots.