"Cuba", Porcacchi, Tomaso

This captivating map of the island is based on the cartography of Giacomo Gastaldi. The map includes Jamaica and part of Hispaniola. The Ye de Lagartos, shown north of Jamaica, is one of the earliest references to the Cayman Islands to appear on a map. The map was graphically engraved by Girolamo Porro, with a stipple engraved sea embellished with sea monsters, a sea turtle, a compass rose, and a decorative title cartouche. It is from one of the most famous Isolarios (Island Books) produced in the 16th century. Printed on a full sheet (8 x 11.7") of Italian text with a historiated initial; title above map, Descrittione Dell' Isola Cuba.

References: Cueto #6; King (2nd Ed.), p. 57-59; Mickwitz & Miekkavaara #187-40.

Condition: B+

A sharp impression with light toning and foxing, and several dampstains along the edges of the sheet, entering the text at bottom.