Americas distorted coast shape above California 1764 Brion Desnos tall ships map

L'Amerique.(North & South America, Patagonia, Amazon, Brazil, Louisiana, Cuba, California, Paraguay). Issued Issued 1764, Paris by Brion & Desnos. Of historical note for the bulbous extension above California creating a distorted shape unique to this cartographic era. North of this is mention of the uncertain existence of a Mer de L'Ouest. Over a dozen tall mast ships sail the seas where two undefined islands or land masses are noted as having been seen in 1605 & 1687. Interesting mid-18th century engraved map with original hand color heightened in outline.  Vignette title cartouche adds to the decorative visual appeal. On either side is original separately printed publisher's letter-press descriptive text relating to the area depicted.  Original fold line as issued, light surface soiling and spotting. Sheet Measures c. 13 1/4" H x  19 3/4" W.Engraved Area Measures c. 9 1/4" H x  10 1/8" W.Tooleys Dictionary of Mapmakers , v. 1, p. 191 [R20277]