Herman Moll (ca. 1654–1732). A Map of the West-Indies or the Islands of America in the North Sea… (London: J. Bowles, 1709-1720). Published in The World Described; or, A New and Correct Sett of Maps… Copperplate engraving on two sheets of elephant folio paper with pleasing outline and some full color. 22 7/8 x 39 3/8 inches to neatline. Sheet: 25 x 41 ½ inches. Inset maps of important Spanish ports: Veracruz, Havana, Porto Bella, and Cartagena. Additional inset view of the City of Mexico in New Spain. Some restoration on verso at folds, otherwise, excellent condition. $6,500.
$6,500.00
A Compelling Depiction of the West Indies by Herman Moll
capturing the expansive details of a new region of wealth.
Highly descriptive and masterfully illustrated, Herman Moll’s map of the West Indies is one of the most interesting and compelling depictions of the region during the 18th century. Being one of the most popular English maps of the Caribbean during this period, the document offered here acted as an essential guide to understanding Spanish commerce in this resource rich region. Fascinating descriptions regarding this information appear throughout the map:
“At Cartagena the Gallions usually stay 60 days, and thence go to Portobel where they lye 30 days, and then return agin to Cartagena; from whence after som stay, they sail for the Havana’, to meet there ye Flota, which is a small number of ships, that go to la Vera Cruz to take in ye Effects of that Country.”
The important Spanish port cities listed above have wonderful inset maps dedicated to their layout and are located in the upper right corner. Useful information includes city configuration and the location of castles, forts, and watchtowers. In addition, Moll illustrates the routes taken by Spanish treasure fleets and denotes beneficial trade winds. This information was aimed at significantly enhancing British piracy and privateering in the West Indies.
A wonderful inset illustration of the City of Mexico (Mexico City) in New Spain appears in the lower left corner of the map along with a corresponding key titled Explanation that lists important locations within the city. Above this inset is a cartouche indicating the dedication of the document to William Paterson Esq., the founder of the Bank of England. Additional noteworthy inscriptions are made by Moll along the Gulf Coast including: the Silver Mines of Caouila, a Country full of Beeves along the North River (Rio Grande), and Many Nations on ye heads of this Branches who use Horses and Trade with the French and Spanjaros located in present day Texas. This presentation predates the founding of New Orleans but indicates the location of Mobile, Alabama by the notation of the French stronghold Fort Mobill just east of Lake Ponchartrain.
Herman Moll’s magnificent map of the West Indies covers a sweeping range of commercial, geographical, and cultural information. Focusing primarily on Spanish trade activity and expansion in the Caribbean as well as the development of the Gulf Coast, this map is an exceptional example of English interests during the 18th century.
References: Phillips, Atlases, 554-10
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