Peninsula Indiae citra Gangem, hoc est, Orae Celeberrimae Malabar & Coromandel Cum adjacente Insula non minus celebratissima Ceylon; 1733 Striking Map of Southern India and Sri Lanka by HOMANN HEIRS - 1733

Nuremburg: Homann, Johann Baptist, 1733. unbound. Map. Copper plate engraving with original hand coloring. Image measures 21 1/4" x 18 3/4" This beautiful 1733 map of Southern India and Sri Lanka or Ceylon was issued by Homann Heirs. It covers Daman south to include all of Sri Lanka. Mapping the region following the death of Emperor Aurangzeb and the resulting decline of the Mughal Empire, several important towns and cities are noted throughout with beautifully rendered topography noting rivers, hills, mountains, forests, and roads. Some coastal features are also noted including Adams Bank, Pearl Banks near the Pearl Fishery Coast, and others. A curious wall appears near Mangalore. This legendary wall was featured in many maps from the period, however no trace of such a wall has been found. Flags throughtout signify British, Danish, French, Dutch, Portuguese possessions while an illustration of a map leading a camel is seen in the center of the map. An elaborate title cartouche in the lower left features an elephant surrounded by natives, goods and traders. The map is in good condition with minor wear along the original centerfold. Original plate mark is visible. Johann Baptist Homann (1664-1724) was a renowned German mapmaker of the late 17th and early 18th century who served as geographer to the Holy Roman Emperor. His business was carried on through the 18th century by the Homann Heirs, also prolific and popular mapmakers.