DESCRIPTION: Fine 18th-century antique French map of Spits-berg (Spitsbergen), in today's Svalbard Islands - in northern Norway; the largest Norwegian island. One of the most northern regions to be discovered by Europeans, the place names seen here reflect the nationalities of those early travellers, English, Dutch, Scandinavian and French. Spitsbergen was first used as a whaling base in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The first known sighting of Spitsbergen by a European was by Willem Barentsz, who came across it in 1596 while searching for the Northern Sea Route.
Published in a French edition of L'Abbe Prevost's "Histoire Générale des Voyages", less than twenty years before Captain Cook's famous voyage. Page 192. Book 17.
Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (1703-1772)
Jacques-Nicolas Bellin was a prominent French hydrographer and geographer, recognized for his significant contributions to the development of cartography. For over half a century, Bellin served as the first Ingénieur de la Marine of the Depot des cartes et plans de la Marine (the French Hydrographic Office) and was appointed Official Hydrographer to the French King. His expertise and precision led to the production of thousands of significant nautical charts and maps, enhancing maritime navigation.
 Petit Atlas Maritime Title Page, 1764
One of Bellin's most notable works, "Le Petit Atlas Maritime," was published in 1764, encompassing five volumes of detailed charts and maps covering every part of the world. Bellin's cartographic legacy extends beyond France; his comprehensive maps and atlases were highly influential in shaping European understanding of global geography during the 18th century. His passion for accuracy and vast output have ensured his place in the annals of cartographic history.
PUBLICATION DATE: 1758
GEOGRAPHIC AREA: Norway
BODY OF WATER: Greenland Sea
CONDITION: Good,
On stong laid paper. Clean with age toning at edges.
COLORING: Attractive outline hand color with wash fill.
ENGRAVER:
SIZE: 12
" x
8 "
ITEM PHYSICAL LOCATION: 88
PRICE: $270
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