London: Printed for T. Woodward, A. Ward, S. Birt, etc. 1744-1748.

(Navigantium atque Itinerantium Bibliotheca or, a Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels Consisting of Above Six hundred of the most Authentic Writers) First edition thus. First expanded edition following the first edition of 1705. Two volumes, folio, bound in full 20th cent. calf with gilt ruling to boards and edges and fine gilt ornament in spine compartments between raised bands. Two spine labels on each volume in red and black leather. Later hand-laid endpapers in each vol. Includes dedicatory letter to King George before title page of volume one and frontispiece of volume two as been backed on original free endpaper. Mild edge wear to text block of volume two, though no text loss. An extensive collection of various travels throughout the world, complimented with numerous maps and engravings. Text and plates are generally clean throughout with only mild and very occasional foxing. This edition was the first appearnance of two notable maps: Bowen's two maps of Australia and Georgia. His Australia map "A Complete Map of the Southern Continent" showing Hollandia Nova and Terra Australis is the first British map of the continent. The second, "A New Map of Georgia, with Part of Carolina, Florida and Louisiana" shows a large portion of territory from the Cherokees' land in South Carolina down to Cape Canaveral in Florida and from the Eastern coast to portions west of the Mississippi. Of significant note, as this map was published for the English crown, it is a fine example of th cartographic warfare that present between England and France. To bolster the British claims of the new colony of Georgia, Bowen shows Georgia extending west of the Mississippi. It is one of only two maps published to have shown Georgia so clearly beyond the Mississippi River. The map also indicates in great detail the various Native American tribes throughout the area and whether they are amicable or hostile towards the English. The map was added in this edition to accompany the new section on the colony of Georgia which was founded by General Ogelthorpe and his board of trustees. The section includes condition in the colony, letters concerning commerce and relations with the native tribes as well as the proposal to make silk the cash crop of Georgia. An attractive and clean set of one of the monumental pieces from 18th century England. vg.

ISBN: none.

[Item #MAP00430]