A Complete Map of the Southern Continent.
London: Emanuel Bowen, 1744. First printing. The first English map devoted solely to the Dutch discoveries in New Holland (Australia). It is based on Thevenot's map of 1663, with the addition of a decorative cartouche on the lower left and a wonderful explanatory note on the history of discovery. Bowen expounds an optimistic view of the country's riches. Dampier's account of the west coast of Australia had reported that the land was worthless - Bowen rejected this, based on the fact that South and Central America were overflowing with riches. James Cook, discoverer of the east coast of Australia, carried this map on his 1st voyage of discovery. One of the most attractive early Australian maps. A wonderful copy with good margins. Slight offsetting caused by the original folds, however not a real detraction from this important map. Item #23487
Price: $5,000.00