Unknown Lands

by Bellec, Francois

• ISBN13: 9781585672011
• ISBN10: 1585672017
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2002-09-11
• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

Summary

This remarkable and beautiful book documents the period of exploration and enlightenment when the Old World began to open its mind to the wonders and mysteries of the New World. Five centuries of eyewitness accounts, drawings, and notes, taken straight from the log books of such famous explorers as Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, Vasco de Gama, James Cook, and many others who names have been lost, appear in these glowing pages. For the sake of gold and God, these explorers ventured into the Sea of Darkness feared for centuries; the detailed documents they compiled are a remarkable testament to their journeys and discoveries. François Bellec, a world famous expert in the field of maritime exploration and history, has assembled a unique document filled with extraordinary maps drawn by the explorers and their cartographers; fabulous depictions of newly encountered plants, animals, and native people; and detailed illustrations of the adventurers' own vessels and instruments, as well as the boats and instruments of technology that they encountered. Bellec's seamless text and stunning images magnificently convey the sense of wonder and excitement that new sights and experiences inspire. Unknown Landsis a visually stunning book and a historical record of the great discoveries that challenged and changed the understanding of European culture. This is a volume sure to transport readers.

Author Biography

Fran+ºois Bellec, director of the Maritime Museum in Paris from 1980 to 1997, is currently the president of the Maritime Museum of La Rochelle, the administrator and treasurer of the Oceanographic Institute, a member of the High Commission of Historical Monuments, and consultant to the Commissioner of the French Pavilion at World Expo in Lisbon. A member of the French and Portuguese Marine Academies, of the Central Commission for UNESCO, and of the French National Arts Society, he writes extensively in the field of maritime exploration and history.