Planiglobii Terrestris Cum Utroq Hemisphaerio Generalis Exhibitio Caelesti

Superb c.18th large scale, double hemisphere German world map by Johann Homann.

Elaborately decorated with a large title banner held outstretched by two cupids holding torches, the cupid on the right-hand side has the astronomical symbol for Venus situated above his head, while just below his red sash is the symbol for Mercury, the messenger and a god of trade, profit and commerce. Both cupids also have the six pointed star on their foreheads, often used as the symbol for Saturn. There are four smaller spheres surrounding the double hemispheres, two large celestial titled: Hemisphaerium Boreale and Australie, these were derived from Hevelius. No less than twenty five head-winds surround the spheres, while the lower section is richly engraved with natural wonders such as, the eruption of Mount Etna, whirlpools and rainbows, all of which are extensively described in the written text. This is one of the finest double hemisphere maps produced by the Homann’s.

Australia and New Zealand are shown according to the discoveries made by Abel Tasman’s on his two voyages of discoveries  in 1642-1644 although only the tracks for his first voyage are shown. The discoveries of Cartenz 1623 on the western coast of Cape York Peninsula and Arnhem Land are also shown, as are those of Nuyts 1627 on the southern coast, while northern Australia is crudely charted.

On the north-west coast of America, California is shown as a peninsula and attached to the mythical land of Terra Esonis.

Issued prior to Homann being being granted Privilege in 1715 as Geographer to the Emperor. 

From Homann’s, Neuer Atlas.uber die Gantze Welt.