Catalog Archive
Auction 195, Lot 77

"L'Amerique, Dressee sur les Observations de Mrs. de l'Academie Royale des Sciences, et Suivant les Memoires les Moins Suspects", Bion, Nicolas

Subject: Western Hemisphere - America

Period: 1710 (dated)

Publication: L'Usage des Globes Celeste et Terrestre...

Color: Black & White

Size:
7.9 x 6.5 inches
20.1 x 16.5 cm
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This small, fascinating map of the Western Hemisphere was published in the third edition of L'Usage des Globes Celeste et Terrestre et Des Spheres Suivant les Differens Systaemes du Monde (1710), Bion's treatise on geography, scientific instruments, and the use of globes. Beyond the Strait of Anian, there is an incomplete landmass called Terre de Jesso that stretches to Asia with a note in the region that reads "ce pays est fort Inconu" (this land is little known). The colonies of N. Angleterre, N. Pays Bas, N. Suede, and Virginie are indicated along the east coast. Carolina appears to be a part of the massive Florida territory (or La Plaja) that dominates the southern United States. The Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico in present-day Texas. West of the Mississippi is a vast New Mexico. California is named, and Santa Fe is the only city identified in the present-day United States. At the center of South America is the mythical lake Xaraies. Fragments of New Zealand and the coast of the mysterious Terres Australes, et Inconnues are shown at bottom. A decorative title cartouche adorns the top right corner.

References:

Condition: A

Issued folding on a clean bright sheet.

Estimate: $220 - $250

Sold for: $160

Closed on 11/15/2023

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