Africa - Africa; G. Sanson/ P. Mariette - Afrique. - 1661-1680

G. Sanson/ P. Mariette, Afrique.

Paris, 1669.

A spectacular, historically significant, and beautifully detailed large folio map of the entire continent of Africa. Originally compiled by Nicolas Sanson (1600–1667), the unanimously acclaimed "Father of French Cartography," this specific 1669 state was thoroughly revised, updated, and published in Paris by his son, Guillaume Sanson and issued through the prominent workshop of Pierre Mariette.
This map marks a milestone transition away from traditional, highly decorative Dutch Renaissance styles (which filled unknown terrains with fantastical monsters and fictitious cities) toward the rigorous, scientifically minded French Positivist school.

As noted in the upper-right title cartouche, this edition was “corrigée et changée en plusieurs endroits, suivant les Relations les plus recentes” (corrected and changed in several places following the most recent accounts). Guillaume Sanson integrated updates regarding trade routes, coastal accurate shapes, and inland African kingdoms.

The map showcases the entire African landmass, Madagascar (drawn in its classic early curved shape), the Canary and Cape Verde island groups, and the Mediterranean basin. It also captures the tip of Brazil and labels the Ocean Meridional Ethiopien, indicating its utility for the Portuguese and Dutch maritime routes rounding the Cape of Good Hope to reach the East Indies. Inland, the sources of the River Nile are depicted flowing out of two major mythical interior lakes, reflecting the enduring influence of Ptolemaic geographical theories in the late 17th century.

The map features a beautiful, large baroque title cartouche in the upper right corner utilizing minimalist, elegant French architectural scrollwork.

In Original hand-colour with some touch ups.

Dimensions: 40 x 56 cm (engraving), 45 x 61 cm (paper).

Good condition, a few minor printer's creases.