Antique Map, Strait of Magellan with plans of principle ports, 1787

Strait of Magellan, 1787, with plans of principle ports, or “Detroit de Magellan, avec les Plans des principaux Ports, Bayes & de ce Detriot” in its original French. Copperplate engraving by M. Bonne, Hydrographer, engraved by Andre, 1787. 

This lovely old map has a central compass rose and includes insets showing detailed plans of Ports, Bays, Harbours and Anchorages, including Cap Tamar and Cap Providence, Baye St.David, York, Dauphin, Cap Upright, Bay and Harbour Cordes, Swallow and Hirondelle and Port Gallant. 

Until the construction of the Panama Canal, the Strait of Magellan was the most important passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is considered a difficult route to navigate due to unpredictable winds and currents and the narrowness of the passage.

Size; 39 x 29 cm. Condition good.