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Early example of Homann's first map of Asia, extending from the Mediterranean to the Pacific and including parts of Nova Hollandia, Carpentaria, Nova Britannia and the Marianas, along with a nice incomplete version of the mythical Compagnie Land, north of Japan. Includes privilege.
This edition of the map includes an ornate second cartouche in the upper right corner of the map. In later editions, the cartouche is removed and the coastal features above Japan along the NE Coast of Asia are significantly revised. There are also small changes in the mapping of Carpentaria.
Dampier's passage north of Carpentaria is noted, along with Arnham's Land and Vay van Diemen on the continent of Nova Hollandia. Nova Britannia appears to have been detected by William Dampier in 1700. Several place names appear in Carpentaria.
The note at the top right translates as follows:
KIND READER
Behold the new map of all ASIA, constructed by us with a new scheme derived from various, yet the best and most outstanding geographers of our age, and adorned with all the novelties that you may find nearly everywhere, both in all and in each of their works published so far. Nevertheless, in the various empires of ASIA, which are especially filled with the errors of Mohammed and other abominable beliefs of nations, the present map will inform you more fully about the glory of the Cross of CHRIST triumphing in China alone and a few islands of the Indies. Farewell, kind reader, and favor our efforts, which promise further achievements.
With the Privilege of the Holy Imperial Majesty.
Johann Baptist Homann (1663-1724) was a mapmaker who founded the famous Homann Heirs publishing company. He lived his entire life in Bavaria, particularly in Nuremberg. Initially, Johann trained to become a priest before converting to Protestantism and working as a notary.
In 1702, Johann founded a publishing house that specialized in engravings. The firm flourished, becoming the leading map publisher in Germany and an important entity in the European map market. In 1715, Johann was named Imperial Geographer to the Holy Roman Empire by Charles VI and made a member of the Prussian Academy of Sciences. Most importantly for his business, his reputation and contacts gained him imperial printing privileges which protected his publications and recommended him to customers. Johann is best known for this Grosser Atlas ueber die ganze Welt, or the Grand Atlas of the World, published in 1716.
After Johann died in 1724, the business passed to his son, Christoph (1703-1730). Upon Christoph’s early death, the company passed to subsequent heirs, with the name of the company changing to Homann Erben, or Homann Heirs. The firm continued in business until 1848.
