ARTIST: Johann Schreiber
MEDIUM: Copper plate engravings
DATE: c.1740
EDITION SIZE: Paper size 7 3/8 x 10 1/2" (18.8 x 26.8 cm)
DESCRIPTION: A lovely matched set of the world and continents.<br><br> Double hemisphere world map with two diagrams of the known solar system between the cusp. The upper shows the ideas of Nicolaus Copernicus with the sun in the center; The lower shows the ideas of Tycho Brahe where the sun revolves around the earth.<br><br> America depicts North and South America, with California shown as an island. The Strait of Anian is shown in the Pacific Northwest, separating a large Terra Esonis Incognita from California. There are numerous, meticulously engraved place names throughout the map. The title cartouche is surrounded by native figures and products of the Americas.<br><br> Africa is filled with an imaginary interior and place names. The Nile is shown emanating from two lakes, Zaire and Zafftan, south of the equator, and the Mountains of the Moon are nearby. The title cartouche is flanked by a European, an African, an elephant and a lion.<br><br> Asia. This small map of the continent includes all of South East Asia. Japan appears as a large single island named Imperium Japonicum, incorporating Terra Yedso. Compagnie Land is still shown to the east of Japan. The decorative title cartouche features native peoples and exotic animals.<br><br> Europa is an attractive map of Europe showing the political divisions, which are listed in a column at right. The detail is minutely engraved and includes volcanoes, mountains and other topographical details.
ADDITIONAL INFO:
CONDITION: Overall in good condition, save for some minor splitting along centerfold. Original hand coloring.
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