Mappa Aestivarvm Insularum, alias Barmudas

Amsterdam, 1636. No Binding. Near Fine. 15 1/2 x 20 1/4 inches. Fine original color; excellent condition; elegantly framed. A beautiful example of this classic Dutch map of Bermuda. As were most 17th century maps of Bermuda, Hondius' was based on Richard Norwood's 1618 chart, executed in behalf of the Bermuda Company. The map thus includes the parishes and tribes allotted to the company's principal members with their names included, most of which survive in one form or another to this day. The map vividly illustrates how hazardous the coastline of Bermuda was and is to shipping by the almost unbroken ring of crosses signifying wrecks surrounding the island. The engraving actually includes two maps of Bermuda of different scales. Nestled within the hook of the island is another, smaller depiction of Bermuda, placed there to show its position and size relative to Cape Cod, Nova Scotia and Virginia. (Roanoke, Cape Henry and Cape Charles are all named). This design proved confusing to some later copiers, who dispensed with the mainland in their renditions while mistakenly retaining the smaller "Bermuda," thereby transforming it into a small island off the coast of Bermuda. Palmer, MCS No. 19, map no. 8.