Catalog Archive
Auction 192, Lot 685

"A General Map of the Discoveries of Admiral de Fonte & Others, by M. De l'Isle", Delisle, Joseph Nicholas

Subject: North Pacific Ocean

Period: 1754 (published)

Publication: Gentleman's Magazine

Color: Black & White

Size:
10.1 x 7.8 inches
25.7 x 19.8 cm
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This fascinating map details the discoveries of Tchirikow, Bering, Bernarda, Spanberg and others. The major focus of the map is on Admiral Bartholomew de Fonte's purported exploration of the Pacific Northwest. In 1708, a newly discovered account of the Spanish Admiral's 1640 expedition was published. It was actually a hoax, but thereafter the account was elaborated upon by numerous mapmakers. The extravagant claims included the discovery of the Northwest Passage and a huge Sea of the West, both shown on this map.

References: Jolly #GENT-88; McGuirk #35; Wagner #561.

Condition: B+

Issued folding with a few spots in the image and two short edge tears at top that have been closed on verso with archival tape.

Estimate: $160 - $190

Sold for: $120

Closed on 4/26/2023

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