MOLL, Herman (1654-1732). Map of North America according to ye Newest and most Exact Observations. London: sold by H. Moll; printed for I. Bowles, T. Bowles, P. Overton, and John King, [c.1719-1730].

Moll’s codfish map: a large and late map to show California as an island. California is depicted “on the second Sanson model, with indented northern coast, and with Mozeemleck Country and Straits of Annian to the north” (McCorkle). The northern part of California bears the legend: “New Albion is laid down according to the observations made by Sir Francis Drake 1578.” New Mexico is shown crowded along the coast of the Gulf of California, aka “Red Sea.” “It is difficult to believe that this celebrated cartographer could have published such a map without a blush, for he grievously cheated his patrons—though he did add a legend ‘Parts Unknown’ just south of Lahontan’s vagaries” (Wheat).

The map’s great appeal is more on aesthetic grounds—and as a famous cautionary tale of cartography. There is also a fully colored view of “ye manner of Fishing for Curing & Drying Cod at New Foundland" and inset maps of "St. John's Harbour," Boston Harbour, "New York, Ashley & Cooper River," "Port Royal Harbour," "The Bay & City of ye Havana," "The Bay of Pto Bella," "La Vera Cruz," "Cartegena Harbour and Forts," and "The Port of Acapulco." McCorkle 192; Schwartz & Ehrenberg, pl.79; Wagner 514; Wheat Transmississippi West 105.

Engraved map on two sheets, modern hand-coloring, total size of approx. 575 x 973mm to neat lines (small rubs at left side of horizontal fold, affecting fisherman's face, small splashmark). Drawn by B. Lens and engraved by George Vertue. Matted and framed together.