This handsome English world map was published during a period of extensive exploration and rapid geographical discoveries. Senex has used an unusual devise to show a comparison of new and old cartography; the out-dated concepts are lightly engraved and left uncolored. California is presented as an island on the main double hemisphere map, and shown as a peninsula in two small projections; reflecting the controversy of the island theory that was still prominent in cartographic circles at this time. The map includes four hemispherical projections in the corners, zonal projections, and an armillary sphere flanked by Hercules and Ulysses. The top of the map is filled with an extravagant panorama of allegorical figures representing the known continents: Europe is surrounded by accoutrements of learning and art; Asia with a censer filled with exotic incense; while Africa and America hold a scorpion and a bow, respectively. The cartouche notes that the map was revised by John Senex and likely came from a plate previously published by Christopher Browne. The map was dedicated to George, Prince of Wales (1714-1721).

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) T.SEN-2a #1.

Condition: B

Partial contemporary outline color on a lightly toned sheet with fleur-de-lis watermark. The sheet has pressed and been backed with tissue to reinforce and repair centerfold separations at top and bottom as well as several small cracks due to oxidation of the green pigment. A couple of edge chips in the left margin have been repaired with old paper on verso.