Mer de L'Ouest myth California Japan fantasy 1779 Buache Sloane large map
Brian DiMambro- Antiquarian Books, Maps & PrintsCare des Nouvelles Decouveretes - Extrait d'une Carte Japonoise de L'Universe.
(Pacific Ocean, Japan, Kamchatka, Korea, Alaska, Aleutian Islands, Arctic Circle).
Issued c. 1779, Paris by Buache. Map by Bauche & Sloane.
Early 18th century engraved map with attractive hand color.
Top map depicts the cartographic myth of a Mer de l'Ouest set within a total jumble of cartographic fantasy and nonsense fascinating to modern eyes. The bottom map continues the distortions as relates to the Japanese islands according to Kaempfer
Remains a nice looking example with a pleasing age patina. Any age flaws mostly minor and easy to overlook or forgive.
Original fold lines as issued.
Sheet Measures c. 14 3/4" H x 17 1/4" W.
Engraved Area Measures c. 12" H x 15 1/4" W.
Cartographic Reference(s):
Tooley's Dictionary of Mapmakers, vol. 1.
[R27147].