Carte de Perse

Beautiful example of the Dutch edition of de l'Isle's important map of Persia.

When this map was first published by de L'Isle in 1724, it was believed to be the most detailed map of the country issued in Europe at the time. It was one of the first maps to show the new shape of the Caspian Sea, based on the survey commissioned by Peter the Great in 1720-1. It was also one of the first maps to give the settlement of "Tiheran" (Tehran) prominence. Of particular note is the network of caravan routes prominently shown in the interior, an important part of this branch of the Silk Road. 

The map was highly influential and was heavily emulated and copied, both legally and illegally throughout the 18th century. The firm of Covens and Mortier were given permission to act as agents and publishers for de L'Isle's maps in Amsterdam. They reduced the size of the maps slightly and added a Latin title in the upper margin. 

This example is a later Dutch edition with full body colour, an unusual feature. [MEAST4686]