Mauritius.

Mallet, Allain Manesson. "Isle Maurice" Paris. Thierry. Denys. 1683
Copper engraved view of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean showing the now extinct giant tortoises being ridden by European travellers. from Mallet's "Description de l'Univers" 1st edition. Blank verso. Dark impression. Some dampstaining to lower blank margin.

Allain Manesson Mallet 1630- 1706, French cartographer, engineer and mathematician, served in the army of Louis XIV, and also that of the King of Portugal later becoming Inspector of Fortifications to Louis. He published the "Description de l'Univers" in 1683, attempting to describe the cartography, towns, ports, people, habits and traditions of the known world. The work extended to 5 volumes with some 600 illustrations.
His other works were"Les Travaux de Mars, ou L'art de la Guerre" 1684, and "La geometerie Practique" 1702.
148 by 100mm (5¾ by 4 inches).   ref: 1187  €60