"Africa Vetus", Sanson/Mariette

This elegantly engraved map of the continent features an unusual coastline with numerous inlets. The map is divided into regions with classical names, and all the tribes of southern Africa are labeled Anthropophagi Aethiopes (cannibals). The interior geography is standard for the period with the Ptolemaic twin lakes conception of the Nile's origin. A wreath-style cartouche flanked by putti encloses the title.

References: Betz #106; Norwich #41; Pastoureau, SANSON V D [203].

Condition: A

A dark impression on a bright sheet with a coat of arms watermark, contemporary outline color in the map and later color in the cartouche, and minor marginal soiling.