Antique Miniature Map of the Western Hemisphere, with California as an Island

Antique miniature map titled 'Nouveau Continent avec plusieurs Isles et Mers'. Decorative map of the Western Hemisphere, published by Alain Manesson Mallet. The map shows California as an Island, no Northwest Coast of America and an incomplete New Zealand. This map originates from 'Description de l' Univers', published circa 1683.

Alain Mannesson Mallet (1630-1706) was a French mapmaker and engineer who served in the armies of Louis XIV. After rising through the ranks, Mallet was appointed as Inspector of Fortifications, a job which also required mathematical skills and which made him a competent military engineer. Eventually, he joined the court of Louis XIV at Versailles, where he taught math and focused on writing.

Condition: Good. General age-related toning, minor wear and soiling. French text on verso. Please study image carefully.

Date: c.1683

Overall size: 14.2 x 21 cm.