Mercator map of Japan

Mercator (Jodocus Hondius), 1606 (c1610):
Iaponia. Lightly toned overall. Excellent. Full original color. 13 1/2 x 17 1/2 inches. $2800.

The map of Japan prepared by Hondius for the Mercator Atlas is a close derivative of the Teixeira map introduced by Ortelius in 1595. Hondius, however, makes note of the mystery surrounding Korea by including an inscription stating that it is not known whether it is an island or part of the Asian continent.