Finely coloured map of the of North and South America taken from Matthäus Merian’s “Topographia” published during the period 1642-1688. Based on the 1618 map of the Americas by Jodicus Hondius, it is a very decorative, early map of the continents containing an inset map of Greenland and Island and embellished with images of sailing ships and sea monsters. It contains many inaccuracies including the west coast of North America stretching much too far to the west and the absence of John Smith’s discoveries including the Chesapeake Bay Blank verso. Other than a few minor repairs to the margins and some excess ink staining from the printing process limited to the margins, a beautifully coloured example in excellent condition. 28 cm x 36 cm