Africa--Coronelli, Vincenzo Maria.

Betz, Mapping of Africa 153; Norwich 56; Tooley, Collectors' Guide to the Maps of the African Continent p.38

The condition of this item is as described in the catalogue description
"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."

One of the most famous and collectable maps of the African continent, with the title on a large banner surrounded by all manner of African animals, including lions, camels, elephants and crocodiles. "Finely engraved and beautifully decorated" (Betz).

The interior is dominated by a large allegorical cartouche representing the Nile flowing from a jar, with a text giving a brief summary of previous mapmakers' understanding on the source of the Nile, including Ptolemy's fabled Mountains of the Moon, contrasted with the more modern accounts by Baltasar Tellez (1595-1675), who compiled an account of the Jesuit explorations of Ethiopia, published in 1660, and Hiob Ludolf in his "Habessinia", 1683. The placement of the cartouche also served to conceal Coronelli's ignorance of the interior of central Africa.