Map of Rhône, 1852

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This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer … Read more This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer known for his richly illustrated maps. The map is a steel engraving, which was a common and precise method for creating maps at the time. The inclusion of the publisher's name, A. Combette from Paris, and the addresses of the various contributors to the map's creation, like the engravers Laguillermie and Rainaud, adds to the historical context of the piece. The margins of the map are adorned with detailed illustrations that serve as a visual encyclopedic reference to the region's geography, economy, and notable figures.

The use of color along the boundaries makes the map not only a tool for navigation but also an educational resource, providing insights into the department's landscape, economy, and cultural significance. The text included in the map's design provides statistical information, a map legend, and discussions about the land, local curiosities, notable personalities, products, and commerce, which would have been invaluable for education and reference at the time. The 'Atlas National Illustré' is celebrated for its combination of cartographic detail and artistic embellishment, making it a valuable cultural artifact. It represents the height of decorative map-making in the 19th century, alongside the works of John Tallis and Archibald Fullarton.

This original handcolored antique print is a map of the 'Département du Rhône' from Victor Levasseur's "Atlas National Illustré." The map is titled 'Dépt. du Rhône' and, as with other maps from this series, it features a blend of geographical detail and artistic embellishment. The map of the Rhône department, which includes the city of Lyon, is central to the image, with various roads, towns, and possibly the river systems illustrated. The surrounding vignettes and illustrations are likely to depict the cultural and economic life of the region. Given the Rhône's location, they may include images that relate to the silk industry, which was historically important in Lyon, and possibly the wine production that the Rhône valley is famous for. The left and right margins of the map contain columns of text that provide statistical information, a historical account, and s of the region's significant features. Portraits of notable individuals may be included, representing important historical figures or contributors to the region's development. See less