Speed, John. America with those parts in that unknowne worlde both people and manner of buildings. "Discribed and inlarged by J.S. Ano. 1626." Engraved by Abraham Goos, published by Thomas Bassett and Richard Chiswel [1676], the map appeared in Speed's atlas "Prospect of the World." Hand colored, 15 1/2 x 20 1/5". Attractively matted and framed to 21½ x 26".
One of the most decorative and interesting maps of North and South America from the seventeenth century, with superb decorative and historical vignettes. This is Speed's most famous map, with views of eight cities in the Americas, as well as ten depictions of indigenous peoples from the various regions, including the northern, middle and southern parts of the eastern coast of North America. An inset map shows Greenland, Baffin's Bay and Iceland. Considerable detail is shown in South and Central America and the eastern parts of North America, including indications of the Chesapeake, Delaware and Hudson Bays. This map is most famous, however, for its depiction of California as an island; it is the first atlas map to depict this misconception, which was copied long thereafter. The Atlantic and Pacific Oceans are filled with delightful ships, sea monsters and flying fish. Burden, 217.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 8,000.
The Hunter Collection of Antique Maps
