This informative copperplate engraved sheet provides a detailed reference chart to the (European) political organization of the Western Hemisphere in the first few decades of the 18th century. The eye is immediately drawn to the inset map in the center-right, which provides a simple hand-colored outline of the various territorial claims spread across North and South America. Notably, California is displayed as an island and the Antarctic is labeled 'Terre Inconnue' (Unknown land). Over twenty-five different locations are numbered and affiliated with the Dutch, Danes, Swedes, British, French, Portuguese, or Spanish. Further descriptive text outlines the different forms of government organization, with four illustrations showing different political offices. The sheet was published in Paris around 1721 as part of Henri Abraham Chatelain's important Atlas Historique. This monumental seven-volume set was first issued in Amsterdam between 1705 and 1720, but was re-printed in numerous subsequent editions (of which this is likely an example). The scholarly work offers a nuanced synthesis of geography, cosmography, history, religion, ethnology, and political science that provides fascinating contemporary details through the inclusion of descriptive text, maps, charts, diagrams, and illustrations. Sheet Width (in) 19.7 Sheet Height (in) 17.3 Condition Description A bit of loss in the center of the bottom margin has been professionally repaired. Scattered toning and a few spots visible along the outer edges of the sheet, away from the image. Creasing and minor wear along the vertical centerfold. Good to very good condition overall, with attractive modern hand color. Blank on verso.
