Catalog Archive
Auction 95, Lot 87

"Carte d'un Tres Grand Pais Nouvellement Decouvert dans l'Amerique Septentrionale Entre le Nouveau Mexique et la Mer Glaciale…", Hennepin, Louis de (Fr.)

Subject: Colonial North America

Period: 1697 (circa)

Publication: Nouvelle decouverte d'un tres grand pays

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17.5 x 14.7 inches
44.5 x 37.3 cm
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This significant map of eastern North America is most notable for its depiction of the river and lake routes into the interior and the Great Lakes region, particularly the delineation of Lakes Superior, Michigan and Huron, which are a marked improvement on Sanson's maps. Even with these improvements, the lack of accuracy is very evident; depicting the lakes enlarged and exaggerated, Hudson Bay too far to the east and the Mississippi River too far to the west with its mouth in what is present-day Texas. Louis de Hennepin, a Franciscan missionary, accompanied LaSalle in the explorations of the Upper Mississippi. After LaSalle returned for additional supplies, Hennepin and his party were captured by Sioux Indians. While traveling with the Indians, Hennepin discovered the falls where Minneapolis now stands, and named them St. Anthony Falls, in honor of his patron saint. Rescued in 1681 by Sieur du Luth (Duluth), Hennepin returned to Europe where he published accounts of his journey with some embellishments including a claim that he preceded LaSalle to the upper Mississippi.

References: Burden #739; Karpinski, pp. 118-123.

Condition: A

Professional repair of 3" binding tear and fold intersections. Margins skillfully extended all around.

Estimate: $2,750 - $3,250

Sold for: $2,000

Closed on 6/13/2001

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