Large Map of Russian Discoveries in Siberia, 1784

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1784 Russian Discoveries in Siberia, Alaska & the Bering Strait - Gerhard Friedrich Muller "Nouvelle Carte des Decouvertes Faites par … Read more 1784 Russian Discoveries in Siberia, Alaska & the Bering Strait - Gerhard Friedrich Muller "Nouvelle Carte des Decouvertes Faites par des Vaisseaux Russiens Aux Cotes Inconnues de L'Amerique Septentrionale avec Les Pais Adiacents" is a seminal map by Gerhard Friedrich Muller, showcasing Russian discoveries in Siberia, Alaska, and the Bering Strait region. Originally published in 1754, this map served as a direct counter to Guillaume de L'Isle's speculative "fantasy" map of the same area, which prominently featured the fictitious Mer de l'Ouest (Sea of the West). This edition, published in 1784 by the Imperial Academy of Sciences in St. Petersburg, reflects the substantial geographic knowledge gained through Russian explorations, particularly the voyages of Vitus Bering. It accurately depicts the northern Pacific coasts, focusing on Siberia, the Aleutian Islands, and the Alaskan coast. The hand-coloring remains vibrant, emphasizing key geographic details, and a richly decorated rococo cartouche adorns the upper right, indicating the map's origins. This map is a significant artifact, illustrating the progression of cartographic accuracy and the influence of Russian expeditions in shaping the early knowledge of the North Pacific and Arctic regions. The 1784 edition of Gerhard Friedrich Muller's map features the routes of key Russian voyages that explored the North Pacific, specifically those related to the exploration of Siberia, Alaska, and the Bering Strait. These include: 1. Vitus Bering's Voyages (1728 and 1741) - The map shows routes of Vitus Bering, a Danish explorer in the Russian Navy, who led two important expeditions: - During his first Kamchatka Expedition (1728), Bering navigated through what is now known as the Bering Strait, proving that Siberia and Alaska were separated by a sea. - His second Kamchatka Expedition (1741) extended further eastward to Alaska. This journey greatly expanded European knowledge of the northern Pacific and confirmed Alaska as part of the North American continent. 2. Aleksei Chirikov's Route (1741) - As part of the second Kamchatka Expedition, Aleksei Chirikov, who was Bering's second-in-command, led a separate ship and reached the Alaskan coast, discovering the southeastern parts of Alaska and providing further detailed knowledge of the area. 3. Russian Navigators in the Aleutian Islands - The map also shows the exploration routes in and around the Aleutian Islands, which were instrumental for Russian fur traders and explorers navigating the North Pacific during the mid-18th century. These routes helped the Russians establish contact with indigenous peoples and claim the Aleutian Islands for Russia. 4. Arctic Coastal Explorations - There are routes depicting exploration along the Siberian Arctic coast, showing the extent of Russian efforts to map these remote regions. These voyages added substantial detail to the coastline of northeastern Siberia. The routes on the map reflect the Russian dedication to exploring and mapping the far northern and eastern reaches of Siberia, as well as the newly encountered territories of North America. This period of exploration was crucial for asserting Russian territorial claims and expanding their fur trading operations in Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. The map serves as a visual record of these landmark expeditions and the growing geographic understanding of the North Pacific. Condition Report: The map is in very good condition, with only minor age-related wear: - Paper Quality: The paper is generally stable, with no significant tears or creases. - Coloring: The original hand-coloring is well preserved, still vibrant and enhancing the details of the map. - Edges and Margins: The edges are clean, with only minor toning typical for its age. Margins are intact, with no significant trimming or loss. - Folds: There is a central vertical fold, likely original, with no signs of excessive wear or damage along the fold lines. - Cartouche and Details: The decorative cartouche and detailed engravings are crisp and clear, without significant fading or smudging. Summary: Overall, this 1784 map is well-preserved, with vibrant hand-coloring, clear engraving, and minimal wear consistent with its age. Light toning and folds do not affect the visual integrity of the piece. See less