Ancient map of the world - Published almost 500 years ago in Europe

This rare map is one of the earliest maps to include North America. Published in the year 1544, this map was believed to have been dedicated to Emperor Charles V. The world is presented in a cordiform projection on a cloud background filled with mythical figures and wind heads. The three cadaverous wind heads at the bottom represent the plague-carrying winds of the south. The heart-shaped border of the map contains signs of the zodiac, and the seas are enlivened with ships and sea monsters. North America is shown as a long slender landmass labelled Baccalearium (Translated: Good cod fishing nearby) in reference to the cod fishing region. The northwest passage is clearly identified.

Above the continent Baccalearium (North America), there is a large Sea of Verazzano topped by the eastern portion of Asia. In Asia, India and Sri Lanka (Seylan) are noted, in addition to the part of Southeast Asia with Sumatra noted as Taprobana.

South America is designated "America", with the interior showing Canibales near Brazil and Gigantium regio in the southern tip, and the Straits of Magellan are shown. Africa has few interior details noted other than the prominent twin lake sources of the Nile, with a note of the Monteslune (Mountains of the Moon) and a lone elephant.