Map of Drôme France with Valence and Rhône Valley Wine Region, 1800s

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Map of Drôme France with Valence and Rhône Valley Wine Region, 19th Century : This beautifully engraved 19th-century map of … Read more Map of Drôme France with Valence and Rhône Valley Wine Region, 19th Century : This beautifully engraved 19th-century map of the Drôme department in southeastern France was created by Alexandre Vuillemin and published by Migeon in Paris as part of the *Nouvel Atlas Illustré*. Combining precise geography with classical decoration, this map offers a detailed portrait of a region that bridges the Alpine foothills and the fertile Rhône Valley. Outlined in soft hand-colored pink, the map includes towns, roads, rivers, and administrative borders. Valence, the departmental capital and a historic gateway to the south of France, is prominently placed near the top. Other notable towns such as Montélimar, Die, and Nyons are labeled with clarity, and the layout captures the topographical transition from mountainous terrain in the east to the flatter Rhône corridor in the west. At the top right, a vignette of Valence shows the town nestled beneath the Vercors mountains. Below that is a portrait of the French dramatist Pierre-Antoine de Chamfort, who was born in Clermont-Ferrand but had associations with the intellectual life of the region. Additional engravings include a suspension bridge over the Rhône River and an image of a goat, likely referencing the local production of regional cheeses and pastoral traditions. Drôme lies in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône wine region, particularly its southern section. The department is home to some well-regarded appellations including Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage, and Clairette de Die. These wines—made from Syrah, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Muscat, among other grapes—are known for their rich textures, spice, and balance. In addition to viticulture, the region is also recognized for truffle production, olive oil, nougat from Montélimar, and lavender fields in the southern zones. This antique map is a fitting tribute to Drôme’s blend of agricultural richness, cultural history, and natural beauty. It is a wonderful addition to any collection of wine-related maps, regional French art, or decorative cartography. Condition summary: Very good condition with slight age toning and a few minor foxing marks along the margins. The engraved lines are sharp and the original hand coloring remains vibrant. Framing tips: A walnut or dark oak frame will complement the regional warmth of the Drôme landscape. Use a light cream or muted lavender mat to match the coloring and draw out the engraved vignettes. UV-protective glass is recommended for preservation and clarity. See less