L'Asie

Influential map of Asia by one of the early advocates for scientific accuracy over decoration in cartography. Unlike most of his predecessors, De l'Isle refused to include information he knew to be incorrect, instead preferring to leave an area blank. His maps were praised for their precision and he became an extremely successful cartographer, eventually being appointed Royal Geographer to the King of France.



The shape of the continent is much improved from the maps of De l'Isle's predecessors, particularly those of Nicolas Sanson. As if to say that maps could be both accurate and attractive, De L'Isle has included a large title cartouche showing a trade caravan or perhaps a royal procession with camels and horses.



Original hand-colour. [AS874]