This very rare map depicts the world in projections from the North and South Poles, a unusual presentation for a world map. It was issued in Cornelis de Jode's Speculum Orbis Terrae in 1593, which was a revised edition of an earlier atlas published by his father Gerard in 1578. However, the present map was one of the several new engravings in Cornelis' work. While the atlas did not have much commercial success, de Jode's maps are often regarded as superior in both design and cartographic detail to his more successful competitor, Abraham Ortelius. There was only one edition of Cornelis' Speculum produced, making this map quite rare on the market.

Cartographically, the map appears to be based on Guillaume Postel's 1581 world map and also bears similarities to a set of anonymous globe gores published in Antwerp circa 1587, the latter of which Shirley speculates may have been associated with the De Jodes. All three depict a Gulf of Merosro bisecting northern North America, Japan very close to the western coast of North America, and northeastern Asia connected to one of the four north polar islands. Additionally, an adjacent north polar island is labeled Nova Zemla, attributed to the English in 1550. A large southern continent, Ter. Australis Incognita, is depicted, and Ferdinand Magellan's recent discoveries have been included. The cities of Cagnavarel, Medano and Norumbega are noted along the eastern coast of North America. The hemispheres are surrounded by windheads and clouds, with two strapwork cartouches containing the title at top. A pair of ships and a spouting sea monster float in the south Atlantic. Latin text on verso.

References: Shirley #184.

Condition: A+

A superb, dark impression on a bright, watermarked sheet. The paper has been professionally de-acidified and buffered to preserve and prolong its life in accordance with the recommended practices of the Institute of Conservation.