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| This is an exceptionally fine, uncolored example of the last of Ortelius' three maps of the American continent. Like the earlier states first published for the "Theatrum" in 1570, this third state relies heavily on Spanish sources for its information. This map, drawing as it does on the latest information, is particularly accurate in Central America as well as the West Indies and Florida. The bulge to South America, seen on Ortelius' earlier maps, has been corrected, the Solomon Islands and many place names in both North and South America have been added and the seas have been extensively re-engraved with numerous additional islands and ships. It also shows considerable new information on both the west and east coasts of North America, and it has been suggested that a new inlet on the east coast is the first depiction of the Chesapeake Bay on a printed map. Overall this map is a stunning example of early, decorative cartography. |
