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| This is one of the most delightful, early landmark maps of the American continent. This striking woodcut was the first to show America completely surrounded by water (earlier maps suggested that the New World discoveries were part of the Asian landmass). Although crude the continent is instantly recognisable. The Portuguese and Spanish standards are depicted illustrating how the New World was divided between them at this time. There is a fascinating depiction of Japan, entitled "Zipangri", which is positioned just off the western coast of North America and which is based on a description of the island by the 13th Century traveller Marco Polo. There is also a superbly carved vignette of explorer Ferdinand Magellan..Magellan.Magell |
