Map of Ain France with Vineyards of Bugey and Notable Portraits, c.1850

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Map of Ain France with Portraits of Bichat and Joubert by Vuillemin, 19th c This highly decorative 19th-century map of … Read more Map of Ain France with Portraits of Bichat and Joubert by Vuillemin, 19th c This highly decorative 19th-century map of the French department of Ain is taken from the celebrated Nouvel Atlas Illustré by Alexandre Vuillemin, published in Paris by Migeon. The map offers not only a geographical overview but also a rich cultural snapshot of the region through its detailed vignettes, portraits, and hand-colored borders. Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of eastern France, Ain shares borders with Switzerland and the departments of Jura, Haute-Savoie, and Rhône. The map presents a comprehensive layout of the towns, roads, and rivers of the area, with communes meticulously labeled and department borders accentuated in pink watercolor. What sets this map apart is the artistic embellishment typical of Vuillemin’s work. To the left, we find a portrait of General Barthélemy Catherine Joubert, a distinguished military figure of the French Revolutionary Wars, who was born in Pont-de-Vaux in Ain. On the right is a profile of Jean-Baptiste Bichat, an influential anatomist and physiologist, also born in the department. These portraits pay tribute to Ain’s contributions to both military and medical history. Above the map is a scenic engraving of Bourg-en-Bresse, the department's capital, with a view of its cathedral and rural surroundings. A romantic landscape sketch in the bottom right corner adds to the artistic richness of the piece. Ain is not only known for its historical figures and picturesque landscapes but also for its wines. While not as internationally renowned as neighboring Burgundy, the area includes parts of the Bugey wine region, which produces notable whites and sparkling wines such as Bugey Cerdon—a lightly sparkling rosé made from Gamay and Poulsard grapes. These wines are gaining recognition for their freshness and unique character. Alexandre Vuillemin, a prominent 19th-century French cartographer, was known for combining scientific accuracy with ornamental detail. His works were widely published and are still admired for their visual appeal and educational value. The publisher, Migeon, specialized in richly illustrated atlases and educational publications, contributing to the map’s artistic and historical significance. Condition summary: Overall very good condition with light toning to the margins. Some faint foxing typical of age, mainly in the outer areas, not affecting the map or illustrations. Original hand-coloring preserved and vibrant. Framing tips: This map will look refined in a classic gold or dark wood frame with a cream or soft grey mat to complement the warm tones of the paper and hand-coloring. A non-reflective museum glass is recommended to preserve the print and reduce glare. See less