East African Coast Map by Bellin, 1740

Details

Description

East African Coast – French Map by Bellin, Zanzibar to Arabia, 1740 This important French map depicts the eastern coast … Read more East African Coast – French Map by Bellin, Zanzibar to Arabia, 1740 This important French map depicts the eastern coast of Africa from Mozambique and Zanzibar northward to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Titled “Carte de la Coste Orientale d’Afrique,” the map was engraved under the direction of Jacques-Nicolas Bellin, Hydrographer to the French King, and published in Paris in 1740 by order of the Comte de Maurepas. The chart was drawn from Bellin’s larger map of the Indian Ocean and represents one of the earliest systematic French attempts to chart the East African coastline with consistency and comparative accuracy. It covers a vast geographic area, including Mozambique, Zanzibar, Mombasa, the Somali coast, the Red Sea entrance, southern Arabia, and the islands of Socotra and the Comoros, including Anjouan. Bellin’s engraving emphasizes coastal continuity and navigational clarity. Key ports, capes, islands, and trading centers are carefully named, reflecting the importance of this coastline within Indian Ocean trade networks linking East Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe. Latitude lines, a longitudinal grid, and a finely engraved compass rose reinforce the map’s scientific and navigational intent. The decorative cartouche, engraved in a restrained Rococo style, balances elegance with authority and identifies the map as an officially sanctioned French hydrographic production. Bellin’s work is known for its clarity and reliability, and his African coastal maps are increasingly sought after due to their historical significance and strong visual appeal. This map offers a broad contextual view that complements more localized charts of Mozambique and the Comoros, making it particularly attractive to collectors interested in French colonial cartography, Indian Ocean trade history, or early European mapping of Africa. Condition report Good condition overall. Light age toning consistent with period. Minor scattered spots and a few small stains. Original hand coloring. Plate mark visible. Margins intact. Framing tips A warm ivory or light sand-colored mat works well with the aged paper tone and colored coastline. A medium to dark wood frame enhances the cartouche and compass rose without overpowering the composition. This map displays beautifully as a centerpiece or as part of a coordinated East African wall arrangement. Technique: Copper engraving with contemporary hand color Maker: Jacques-Nicolas Bellin, France, 1740 See less