Hondius' Important Map of the Americas, "America", Hondius, Jodocus

Subject: Western Hemisphere - America
Period: 1623 (published)
Publication: Gerardi Mercatoris - Atlas sive Cosmographicae
Color: Hand Color
Size: 14.8 x 19.8

Jodocus Hondius' map of the Americas is one of the most elaborate examples of fine Dutch cartography. The decorations, including sea monsters, indigenous birds, native canoes and sailing vessels, are taken from De Bry's Grand Voyages. Particularly notable is the scene of natives preparing an intoxicating drink made from manioc roots, which is derived from Hans Staden's harrowing venture into Brazil. The continents are presented on a stereographic projection, which was becoming increasingly popular at the beginning on the 17th century. It presents a more correct western coastline of South America and narrows the breadth of Mexico. However, North America is still too broad and Virginia has an exaggerated coastline. Newfoundland is based on Plancius. The coastlines are fully engraved with place names. From the 1623 Latin edition with blank verso.See also lot 824 for Philip Burden's excellent reference work, The Mapping of North America, which discusses this map.

References: Burden #150; Van der Krogt (Vol. I) #9000:1B.
Condition: B
The map has been backed with tissue to reinforce and repair a number of small cracks in the image and a 3" edge tear at right. There is light scattered foxing and minor soiling.