Antique Map of the Spice Islands by Sanson (c.1652)

Description: Antique map titled 'Insulae Moluccae Celebes, Gilolo & c'. Small map of the Spice Islands. It shows most of New Guinea with some harbors noted along the coasts. Locates many islands, most notably Mesol (Mysol), Ceram, Gilolo (Halmahera), Bouro, Amboina, Banda, and Celebes. Includes three small inset charts: Insulae Moluccae, Bachian ol Seque, and Banda. Originates from 'L'Asie en Plusieurs Cartes'. 

Artists and Engravers: Nicholas Sanson (1600-1667) is considered the father of French cartography in its golden age from the mid-seventeenth century to the mid-eighteenth. Over the course of his career he produced over 300 maps. His success can be chalked up to his geographic and research skills, but also to his partnership with Pierre Mariette.