Copper engraving, mm 410x535, engraved by Jean Somer, published by Pierre Mariette, Sanson’s business partner. First state of Sanson's scarce map of China and Korea, first published in 1656. An important and sought after french map of China, northern part of the Philippines, Korea. It is based on a chinese map copied by Matteo Ricci, brought back to Rome in 1590 by Michele Ruggieri. Very interesting to note is the strange form of Korea, which was generally shown as an island in the 17th century; Sanson’s depiction is also a cartographic improvement as he joins Korea to the mainland. The Great Wall closes the map in the north, a detailed explanation panel in bottom right corner. Good general condition, restored worm track in bottom margin slightly affecting the engraved border. Pastoureau, 10, pag. 402.