AFRICA

Original copperplate printed map: 
14.5 x 19.5 cm (map only).
Map #AFS-107             
$300

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Moll (c.1654-1732) was a geographer, mapmaker, and an engraver originally from Germany.  It is thought that Moll emigrated to England in 1678 via The Netherlands. He was initially employed as an engraver in London, but, starting with this atlas, became much more involved in atlas production.  Moll conservatively follows the traditional and, by this time, quite dated Blaeu 1617 folio map as his model for this map of Africa. As Moll was still establishing himself in London in the cartographic business, it is possible that he felt the wiser course was to use the popular Blaeu map, instead of the newer, more innovative information then available through the French. 

This 1695 atlas does not mention Herman Moll's name on the title page as the author of the maps.  However, one map, Germany, is actually signed by Moll (as 'H. Moll Fecit'). In the edition of 1701, credit is given to Moll on the title page, clearly reflecting Moll's growing prominence as a cartographer.  The map is set within a page of text with the map title engraved into the plate above the map image. This map was also used in The Compleat Geographer... in 1709.  It is believed that this particular map is from this book; on the map at the top right of the page in letterpress is "161".  The map is unchanged in all editions, with the only differences being in the text and pagination within the editions.  On the verso are maps of Barbaria, and of West Africa.

Betz, Map #159.  Not in Norwich.

Very Good overall, with some off-setting of print.