Famed British American Engraver Produces Map of Coasts of Africa for Naval Gazetteer

Engraver Rollinson of New York prepared this map of the southern coasts of Africa for John Malham’s Naval Gazetteer. Rev. John Malham (1747-1821) first published The Naval Gazetteer in two volumes in 1795 in London. Boston booksellers William Spotswood (ca. 1753-1805) and Paul Joseph Guerard de Nancrede (1761-1841) published the first American edition in 1797, also in two volumes.

[SLAVERY.] Printed Map "A Correct Chart of the Southern Coasts of Africa, from the Equator to the Cape of Good Hope," ca. 1797, Boston, Massachusetts. 1 p., 10.25" x 8.5". Some toning and minor water spots; very good.

Of interest is the map’s designation of the ocean to the west of Africa as the 'Ethiopic Ocean, while to the west lies the Indian Ocean and the Southern Pacific Ocean. In addition to identifying various bays along the coast, the map also gives the location of various African tribes, including the Congo, Angola, Hotentots, Bororos, and the Kingdom of Biri.

William Rollinson (1762-1842) was born in Dudley, England, and emigrated to New York City in 1788-1789. Immediately after Rollinson arrived in New York in February 1789, General Henry Knox hired him to create a set of silver-gilt buttons with the arms of the United States for General George Washington to wear at his inauguration in April 1789. With additional commissions as a silversmith, Rollinson was able to bring his wife Mary Johnson (1752-1837) and four children to America from England. Rollinson worked as both a silversmith and a copper plate engraver, as well as a printer. He is well-known for engraved portraits of Washington and Alexander Hamilton, maps, and other works.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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