This is one of the most decorative seventeenth century maps of the African continent and a superb example of the Dutch carte-a-figures style.
The map is surrounded on three sides with vignettes of native peoples (labeled: Marocchi, Senagenses, Mercatores in Guinea, Cab: Iopo Gonsalvi Accolae, Miles Congensis, Aegyptii, Abissini, Cafres in Mozambique, Rex in Madagascar, Cab: bonae Spaei habitatores) and nine principal cities: Tangier, Ceuta, Algiers, Tunis, Alexandria, Alcair, Mozambique, “S. Georgius della Mina”, and Canaria. Much of the geographical information of this map is still based on the Ptolemaic maps, with the Nile shown with its source in the Lakes Zaire and Zaflan. Also included are various other mythical lakes and rivers including the famous Lake Sachaf of Laurent Fries. The body of the map is richly embellished with animals, including elephants, monkeys, ostriches, gazelles, lions, cheetahs, and camels. In the oceans are numerous sailing ships, sea monsters, flying fish, and a gorgeous compass rose. From the Blaeu’s Atlas Appendix published in 1642.
Africae Nova Descriptio
“This is one of the most decorative and popular of all the early maps of Africa” [Norwich]
- Dimension: 41 x 55,5 cm
- Place of publication: Amsterdam
- Year: 1635
€ 1.800,00