Title of the map: 

"Novissima et Accuratissima Totius Americae Descriptio per N. VISSCHER" 

Unusual large antique copper engraved map of America, by Nicolas Visscher (1618-1679).

This Visscher's map has greatly influenced the cartography of the Americas both geographically and artistically. One of the most distinctive geographic details copied by other cartographers is the large open lake in the Great Lakes region. 

California is shown as an island. The Island of California refers to a long-held global misconception, dating from the 16th century, that California was not part of mainland North America but rather a large island separated from the continent by a strait now known as the Gulf of California. One of the most famous cartographic errors in history, it was propagated on many maps during the 17th and 18th centuries, despite contradictory evidence from various explorers. The legend was initially infused with the idea that California was a terrestrial paradise, like the Garden of Eden or Atlantis. This mapping error was not a one-off event. From the mid-1500s to the late 1700s great controversy surrounded the geography of California.

The map is embellished with two large cartouches. The top cartouche features a dedication to Cornelius Witsen and depicts angels struggling with a devil for the soul of a Native American. The pictorial title cartouche contains scenes of gold panning, hunting and a native chief standing beneath an umbrella. 

This is the first state, prior to the addition of Vischer's privilege.

Nicolas Visscher (1618-1679) was a 17th century Dutch cartographer and engraver. He was the son of Claes Jansz Visscher and the father of Nicolaes Visscher II, themselves cartographers and engravers.The Visscher family were very important dealers and map publishers in Amsterdam in the 18th century.

Size with margins : 55,5 x 45 cm / 21,6 x 17,7 inches

Edition : Amsterdam, 1658, 18th century.

Condition : good condition, old colors, a small renfort in lower center margin, small white spots. 

If you buy more than one item, you have to pay only one shipping cost.

WE DON'T SELL LASER AND COPIES MAPS, ALL WE SELL IS ORIGINAL AND ANTIQUE

Due to the age an type of paper, some imperfections are to be expected. Please examine the images provided carefully, and if you have any questions please ask and we will be happy to help you