MERCATOR, Rumold (1545-1599) - [I continenti] - Europa; Africa; America Sive India Nova; Asia. Amsterdam: S.d. [ca. 1633].   A lot containing the renown maps of the continents by Mercator in elegant contemporary colouring and good condition.   Particularly noteworthy is the map dedicated to America, one of the first representations of the Western Hemisphere and among the most characteristic. The maps are framed in a circle adorned with decorative motifs of acanthus leaves and intertwined cornucopias. In the four corners there are medallions, three of which contain representations of the Gulf of Mexico, Cuba and the island of Hispaniola. Of great interest is the detail of the Hudson River, indicated in the region called "Norombega". This representation, derived from Verrazzano's discoveries of 1524, had almost disappeared from the maps of the time, but its inclusion by Mercator testifies to an acceptance by the author of such explorations. Other features include the "Mare dulcum aquarum", an inland lake in North America that may refer to one of the Great Lakes or, alternatively, to James Bay or Lake Winnipeg. The maps, taken from Mercator's famous planisphere of 1569, were adapted by his nephew Michael Mercator for inclusion in the 1595 atlas. The maps of Europe, Asia and Africa are also of great interest and in very good condition.   4 engraved maps, plate measurements (ca.382 x 472mm). French text at verso (light browning and tiny stains, tears and restorations heavier on the map of America, reinforcements at central folds, a few tiny holes) (4)

Estimate € 2,000 - 3,000