1631 – J. Hondius – Africae Nova Tabula

Title:                      “Africae Nova Tabula”

Description:
Richly ornamented map of Africa’s continent. The general geography for this map is taken from Willem Blaeu’s wall map. Geographical improvements include a more rounded southern Cape, the naming of the Rio de Spiritu Santo and of the Cuama River , the insertion of Zimbaos and alteration in the shape of Madagascar . The Kingdom of Monomotapa fills the entire southern tip of Africa . However, the map is also filled with fictitious rivers and mountains and shows the origin of the Nile conforming to the Ptolemaic tradition of twin lakes located below the equator, as is typical of 17th century cartography. Ornamentation includes a wreath-style title cartouche, sailing ships, flying fish, various sea monsters, and Neptune consorting with a comely mermaid. Elephants, lions, zebras, ostriches and even a dragon occupy the interior. Latin text on verso. Map dated 1631!

Cartographer:      Jodocus Hondius (1563-1611)

Sheet size:            50 x 59,4 cm

Plate size:            38 x 50 cm

Year:                     1631

Technique:           copper engraving

Condition:
Very good condition. Strong print and paper, wide margins, brownish paper. Original contemporary colouring.

​Due to the age of this map some imperfections to be expected!

This is a genuine antique map published in 1631 and NOT a modern copy or reprint!
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