Sold Antiques

M-11685: (Image: 17 x 21 3/8’’) “Novissima et Accuratissima TOTIUS AMERICÆ…” Amsterdam: Nicholas Visscher, c. 1677. Engraved map with beautiful original hand-coloring, and some minor toning. Centerfold strengthened with linen tape. State 2  (privilege above the lower border at right). Reference:  Burden #332; McLaughlin #48; Tooley (Amer) p. 119, #29; Wagner (NW) #378.

This stunning map depicts North America with Visscher's distinctive large open Great Lakes region.  Visscher's map greatly influenced the cartography of the Americas both geographically and artistically.  Although he copied the Great Lakes region from Blaeu's 1648 wall map of the world, Visscher's map popularized it. California is shown as an island, on the Briggs model, but with a broader northern coastline.

The continents are decorated with indigenous animals.  A battle between native Brazilian tribes is depicted, and the seas are full of sailing vessels.  The map is further embellished with two large cartouches that were also copied by other cartographers. The top cartouche features a dedication to Cornelius Witsen and depicts angels struggling with a devil for the soul of a Native American. The pictorial title cartouche contains scenes of gold panning, hunting and a native chief standing beneath an umbrella.