Beschreibung:

Title: "Greneland" [i.e. Spitsbergen] Author: Purchas, Samuel Place: London Publisher: Date: 1625 Description: Copper-engraved map, surrounded by vignettes of whaling, fishing and hunting; modern hand-coloring. 29.5x33.2 cm (11½x13¼") including the surrounding vignettes. Although labelled 'Greneland' this map depicts Spitsbergen in the arctic, north of Norway. This reflects early English belief that the two were connected somewhere at more northern latitudes. English interest was awakened following Henry Hudson's voyage during which he noted an abundance of whales. It is flanked at the sides and bottom with scenes of whaling and whaling-related activities, hunting bears and "seamorces" (i.e. walruses), etc. Issued in Vol. III of the 1625 second edition of "Purchas His Pilgrimes…" The map accompanies the account of Robert Featherby who in 1613 accompanied the fleet of Benjamin Joseph to Spitsbergen. The following year 1614 he commanded a voyage on behalf of the Muscovy Company to nearby waters. According to Purchas the map is attributed to Thomas Edge, a captain who made a number of whaling voyages to the region. Due to the size and/or weight of this lot extra shipping charges may apply. Lot Amendments Condition: Tiny nick to lower right corner away from image, very good with attractive modern coloring. Item number: 274774a