This superb map of central China is based upon the work of Jesuit Father Martino Martini who traveled through the region between 1643-50. His work greatly advanced European knowledge of the region including the astronomical positions of many cities and topographical features. The map shows the provinces of Sichuan and Shaanxi with major towns and cities identified by tiny buildings including Chengdu (Chingtu) and Xi'an (Sigan), which was a starting point for the Silk Road. North is oriented to the right, with the Great Wall and Gobi Desert prominently depicted along the right side of the map. The title cartouche is flanked by a Chinese and Jesuit man and the scale of miles cartouche is surrounded by putti. Originally issued by Jan Jansson, this is the later re-issue by Gerard Valk and Peter Schenk.

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Condition: B

Full contemporary color with some minor toning along the centerfold. The sheet has been trimmed at top left with some loss of border.