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Description

Finely engraved map of the Vaigach Straits, from Bertius's rare miniature atlas.

The map focuses on the straits between Novaya Zemlya and the mainland of Russia, which had been discovered by western Europeans during their search a northern passage to Asia. The first visit was by Hugh Willoughby in 1553. Then in 1596, during one of this 3 voyages in search of the Northeast Passage, Willem Barentsz rounded the north point of Novaya Zemlya, and wintered on the east coast near the northern tip.

The map shows the straight separating Vaygach Island from the mainland. At the time Vaygach Island was thought to be a part of Novaya Zemlya. The map identifies a number of place names and includes a decorative sailing ship and spouting sea creature (Whale?).