DESCRIPTION: Large working antique nautical chart of African coast focusing on the Gulf of Guinea and Gulf of Benin. Six profile views of the coast of West Africa, just north of the equator. This chart was intended for service aboard French vessels as noted in the cartouche "Pour servir aux vaisseaux du Roy".
Large central cartouche framed by strapwork and floral flourishes. This nautical chart was published less than 40 years after the death of Louis XIV, the "sun king" by the Depot des Cartes et Plans de la Marine.
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: 1750
GEOGRAPHIC AREA: Guinea
BODY OF WATER: Atlantic Ocean
CONDITION: Very good.
Thick, supple paper. Good impression with strong platemark. Minimum 1" margins or more. Very slight browning commensurate with the 260 year age of this chart.
COLORING: Thin outline coloring of the coast.
ENGRAVER:
SIZE: 35
" x
22 "
ITEM PHYSICAL LOCATION: 0
PRICE: $395
ADD TO CART
|