Mer de L'Ouest myth California Japan fantasy 1779 Buache Sloane large map

Care 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].