Copper-engraved map, hand-colored in outline; with figures at the sides and top, colored by hand, and numerous colored sailing ship vignettes, sea monsters, etc. 41.2x55.5 cm. (16¼x21¾").
Striking map of North and South America, with ten depictions of native inhabitants on the sides, nine vignette plans and views of cities and harbors at the top (Havana, St. Domingo, Cartagena, Mexico, Rio Ianeiro, etc.), numerous sailing ships and sea monsters in the oceans, an inset of Greenland and Iceland at the top, and other captivating features. Blaeu had produced wall maps of the continents in 1608, and Burden notes that, with the exception of the inclusion of Hudson's Bay, the map "does not include many of the cartographical advances made between 1608 and 1617... The map's popularity rests on its association with arguably the greatest Dutch cartographer of all time. This is one of only a few maps relating to North America by Blaeu. Its visual appeal is enhanced by the inclusion of three decorative borders... These are from various sources, including Theodore de Bry." This is State 3 of the map, according to Burden, with the name in the title cartouche changed from "Guiljel: Jansonnio" to "Guiljelmo Blaeuw" and the sea not re-engraved in the mentioned places. With Dutch text on the verso, and catch-word/signature mark "West-Indien A", indicating it was issued in the 1635 Nieuwe Atlas. Burden 189.
Condition:
Very mild soiling, 3¾x½" strip at lower centerfold replaced, running in the ocean along the west coast of South America, with some lettering of place names redrawn in manuscript; expertly silked on reverse, neatly taped around edges into mat, with frame; still very good to near fine, a very attractive map, expertly restored, colors bright.