Map of the Western Hemisphere, 1714

Van der Aa’s unusual map of America was first published in 1714 and contains interesting geographical myths.

In North America, California is shown as an island at the beginning of the Sanson shape, with an almost flat top starting at C. Mendocina.

New Albion is seen in the northern part of the island, and Village des Canots has been inserted between P. de Carinde and P de la Conception.

The north-west coast is cut by the Strait of Anian, which separates the mainland from Anian.

The Lawrence River connects to a single large inland lake that opens to the west.

South America is shown with the great mythical inland lake Parime Lacus in Guyana and Lago de los Xarayes in the centre of the continent. A partial outline of New Zealand is shown in the South Pacific.

The beautiful title cartouche shows natives trading New World products with European merchants.

1714 Map of the Western Hemisphere – Historical Map