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An early 17th century map by the Flemish/Dutch cartographer Jodocus Hondius showing Asia and part of Europe and Africa. The Latin text on New Guinea translates as ‘Whether it is an island or the southern part of the continent is not yet certain’.

An early 17th century map by the Flemish/Dutch cartographer Jodocus Hondius showing Asia and part of Europe and Africa. The Latin text on New Guinea translates as ‘Whether it is an island or the southern part of the continent is not yet certain’.

An early 17th century map by the Flemish/Dutch cartographer Jodocus Hondius showing Asia and part of Europe and Africa. The Latin text on New Guinea translates as ‘Whether it is an island or the southern part of the continent is not yet certain’.

Unusually, north is located to the left of this map of East Asia, rather than the top. The text notes that shallows and reefs are marked, and that the map is based on the explorations of Portuguese ships. Illustrations include sea monsters and ships.