Large Map of the Kingdoms of Spain and Portugal by Robert De Vaugondy, 1750

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1750 Map of the Kingdoms of Spain and Portugal by Robert de Vaugondy : This map, titled *"Royaumes d'Espagne et … Read more 1750 Map of the Kingdoms of Spain and Portugal by Robert de Vaugondy : This map, titled *"Royaumes d'Espagne et de Portugal,"* was created in 1750 by the esteemed French cartographer Robert de Vaugondy. It offers a comprehensive view of the Iberian Peninsula, depicting the kingdoms of Spain and Portugal during the mid-18th century. The map is an excellent example of Vaugondy’s detailed and accurate cartography, which was highly regarded in both France and abroad. Notable Features: - **Cartographer:** Robert de Vaugondy was one of the leading cartographers of the 18th century. He served as the official geographer to King Louis XV of France and was known for his high-quality maps that combined scientific accuracy with artistic elegance. His maps are still highly valued by collectors and historians for their detail and historical significance. Important Places: - **Madrid** (depicted centrally as the capital of Spain, reflecting its political importance). - **Lisbon** (the capital of Portugal, prominently shown on the western edge of the map). - **Barcelona** (a key city on the northeastern coast of Spain, an important port and cultural center). - **Seville** (located in southern Spain, a major historical and cultural hub known for its rich heritage). - **Valencia** (a significant port city on the eastern coast, vital for trade and commerce). - **Toledo** (one of Spain's historical capitals, known for its medieval architecture and cultural significance). - **Gibraltar** (strategically positioned at the southern tip of Spain, commanding the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea). - **Santiago de Compostela** (located in the northwest, known as a major pilgrimage site). - **Balearic Islands** (including Mallorca, Minorca, and Ibiza, located in the Mediterranean Sea, are marked as the Royaume de Majorque). Map Details: - **Borders:** The map outlines the borders of various kingdoms and regions within Spain and Portugal, with color-coded lines to distinguish between them. - **Geographical Features:** It includes detailed depictions of mountain ranges, rivers, and coastal features, as well as significant towns and cities. The map also extends to include the northern coast of Africa, showing the proximity and importance of the region to the Iberian Peninsula. - **Scale:** The map features a scale bar, offering measurements in both Spanish and Portuguese leagues, providing a tool for understanding distances across the map. This map is a fine representation of the geographic and political landscape of the Iberian Peninsula in the mid-18th century. It is a valuable piece for anyone interested in the history of Spain, Portugal, or European cartography. Antique map titled 'Royaumes d'Espagne et de Portugal (\.)'. Large format map of Spain and Portugal. Published by Robert de Vaugondy, circa 1750. Gilles Robert de Vaugondy (1688-1766) and his son Didier Robert de Vaugondy (1723-1786) were leading cartographers in France during the 18th century. They served both as geographer to the king of France. The father, Gilles is also known as ‘Le Sieur’ or ‘Monsieur Robert’. He descended from the Nicolas Sanson family through Sanson's grandson Pierre Moulard-Sanson, from whom he inherited Sanson's cartographic material. After Hubert Jaillot died in 1712, the Vaugondy's acquired numerous copies of his maps and plates, which formed the basis of their beautiful Atlas Universel (1757). Their business flourished from 1731 to 1778. They made a substantial contribution to the world of cartography. See less