Lot 196
  • 196

North America--Champlain, Samuel.

Estimate
30,000 - 40,000 GBP
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Description

  • Carte geographique de la Nouvelle Franse faictte par le sieur Champlain Saint Tongois cappitaine ordinaire pour le Roy en la marine... 1612, [Paris], 1612, 440 x 765mm., large map on 2 sheets joined, engraved by David Pelletier, fine dak impression

Literature

Armstrong, From Sea unto Sea... Maps of Canada (1982); Burden, The Mapping of  North America 160

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

A large, finely-engraved map of the northeast part of America, drawn by "The Father of New France" from his personal observations, made in over twenty voyages to Canada and New England.

Champlain was the driving force behind the initial success of French attempts at gaining a foothold in America. The map accompanied the publication of Les voyages du Sieur de Champlain, which included large-scale plans for potential harbours, an important description, and promotional account, of Canada.

Described by Burden as "very rare", Champlain's map of 1612 is perhaps the most important single map in the history of Canada, and can be regarded as a foundation document for Canada. It is also the first printed map to allude to the St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes system based on factual (rather than hearsay or imaginary) evidence.

"Champlain is more than a cartographer. He is also Canada's first exploration artist. The great map of 1612 shows for the first time the diversity of Canada 's wealth. The artistry is overwhelming... beaver, foxes and other animals indicate the future fur-trade potential. There is an abundance of sea life, vegetation, and the ever-present expanse of forest  resources... the map makes a political statement; it is not the work of a bureaucrat, but of a skilful psychologist, and politician" (Armstrong).