1734 Pas Kaart van de Boght van Florida met de Canaal Tusschen Florida en Cuba

A striking example of an old nautical chart of the Gulf of Mexico that presents the southern coast of North America from Mobile Bay to the Florida Keys, part of Cuba, and the Yucatan Peninsula. This is the 5th state of the map, first published in 1631 by the Van Keulen family who were the most prolific nautical chart making company of the 17th and early 18th century.  The map is oriented to the east with north on the left as identified two compass roses. The title cartouche features Neptune, god of the sea, and Mercury, god of commerce, and travel.  Navigational lines known as rhumb lines fill the seas while depth soundings, and coastal landmarks are noted throughout, all of which are essential for maritime travel. Along the top portion of the map are three inset maps of bays in Cuba; Mantacas, Havana, and Hondo. Each of these bays were strategically important for the Spanish for the transport of riches, including gold from their colonies throughout the Caribbean back to Spain. The gal