Japoniae Nova Descriptio

Original copper engraving. Date: c.1639-40. Latin text verso. Sheet size: 57.5cm x 46.4cm. Map size: 44.7cm x 34.3cm. An updated version of the earlier Mercator-Hondius map of the region by Jan Jansson. Korea is still depicted as an island but Jansson notes that it was not yet certain whether or not it was an island or part of the mainland. Includes mileage scale and decorative cartouche. Later, but not modern hand-colouring. Very minor toning to the central fold-line. Old tabs to the upper margin verso. Map very clean. Overall a near fine, bright, example of one of the earliest maps of Japan. Scarce.