Art

A fascinating map of central Africa purporting to explain the source of the Nile. It shows two large central African lakes- Lac Zaflan and Lac Zaire, out of which flow not only the Nile but also the Zaire river and the Niger. An ornate cartouche at lower left, shows a spring- 'Nili Fontes', with two reclining figures watching two streams emerge, one called 'Niger' the other 'Albus' that mix together into the larger stream-Nilus- in which a crocodile swims. Ships and sea monsters at sea. Copper engraving. Uncoloured. Fine condition. Size: 34.5 x 23.5 cm. (13½ x 9½ inches).