Detroit de Waigats
Paris: Denys Thierry, 1683.
Miniature view. Uncolored copper plate engraving. Image measures 6" x 4". Sheet measures 8 1/4" x 5 1/4".
This lovely miniature view of the Yugorsky Strait, is from the original French edition of Manesson-Mallet's "Description de L'Univers." The strait is a narrow Arctic passageway separating the Vaygach Island (here labeled as Waigats) from the Russian mainland. Ships are depicting in the straits, and a Samoyed (Nenets people) settlement is depicted in Russia.
The map is in very good condition, with one spot near bottom border. Small chip to upper left corner, not affecting the image. Text on verso.
Allain Manesson-Mallet (1630-1706) advanced from his position of musket bearer under Louis XIV to eventually occupy the position of "maitre de mathematiques" to the French King. He was the author and engraver of "Description de L'Univers," a five-volume survey of the world that included maps of the ancient and modern world, star maps, illustrations of flora and fauna, and information on the customs, religion and government of the many nations included in the text. When it was published, the text was the largest and most comprehensive work of its type. Intended to entertain its readers, Mallet's "Description" was a time capsule of the 17th-century world that captured and displayed it in all its splendor.
Binding: Unbound
Language: English
Price: $75.00
Item #309078