1740 Carta Geografica Dell: America Settentrionale
By: Giambattista Albrizzi
Date: 1740 (published) Venice
Dimensions: 17 x 13 in (43 x 33 cm)
This is a fine example of mid-eighteenth century cartography. Following the eastern and southern coasts of the United States - as well as Mexico and the Caribbean - Albrizzi’s map was published around 1740.
This map features colorful areas denoting different regions of the continent like “Nuovo Messico,” “Canada o Nuova Francia,” and “Florida,” which includes the majority of what is now the southeastern United States. The Channel Islands off the coast of California are well-defined and there are place names up the coast of California. The Gulf of California is not enclosed and Albrizzi is clearly non-committal as to whether he believes California to be and island, or attached to the North American continent. The northwestern portion of North America is shown as an almost entirely blank region, suggesting the lack of knowledge of the area at the time. Albrizzi’s map also includes the names of many Indigenous nations and people groups.
In the upper left corner is a decorative title cartouche which includes a nude triton-wielding figure surrounded by flames and a sea monster, who is shown watching a group of Europeans on shore. In the upper right corner is a distance cartouche showing Italian miles.
Condition: This map is in very fine condition. A strong impression with bright coloring. Even toning throughout.
Inventory #12070
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