Antique Map of Neuchâtel & Lake Neuchâtel with Heraldry, 1706

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Decorative Antique Map of Neuchâtel & Lake Neuchâtel with Heraldry, 1706 This beautifully detailed antique map depicts the Principality of … Read more Decorative Antique Map of Neuchâtel & Lake Neuchâtel with Heraldry, 1706 This beautifully detailed antique map depicts the Principality of Neuchâtel and Valangin in present-day Switzerland. The map was originally drawn by the Dutch cartographer Daniel de la Feuille around 1706 and later appeared in several eighteenth-century atlases, including the Atlas Portatif, ou le nouveau Théâtre de la Guerre en Europe, published in Amsterdam by De la Feuille and later by J. Ratelband around 1747. The map centers on the region surrounding Lake Neuchâtel (Lac de Neufchatel), the largest lake located entirely within Switzerland. The lake dominates the composition and is animated by a charming detail: twelve small sailing vessels scattered across its waters, giving the map a lively and decorative character. The surrounding landscape is engraved with pictorial relief typical of early eighteenth-century cartography, showing mountains, forests, rivers, and numerous towns and villages that define the historic territory of the principality. At the time this map was created, the Principality of Neuchâtel held a distinctive political position in Europe. Following the succession crisis of 1707, the principality came under the rule of Frederick I, King of Prussia, while still maintaining strong ties to the Swiss Confederation. This political history is reflected in one of the most striking decorative elements of the map: the elaborate heraldic display in the lower left corner. Here the title cartouche is surrounded by eighteen armorial crests representing the heirs and noble houses associated with Frederick, King of Prussia. This heraldic panel adds both historical meaning and visual richness to the composition. Another remarkable decorative feature appears in the lower right corner, where a panoramic view of the city of Neuchâtel is presented within an ornate cartouche. The city is depicted from the lakeside, showing its compact urban form, church towers, and surrounding hills. This vignette provides a rare visual impression of the town during the early modern period and enhances the artistic appeal of the map. The engraving is delicately enhanced with period hand coloring, using soft greens, yellows, and pinks to distinguish the different territories and highlight the mountainous terrain of the Jura region. The combination of geographic detail, heraldic symbolism, and decorative city view makes this map an excellent example of early eighteenth-century European cartographic art. Today, maps of Neuchâtel are particularly sought after by collectors interested in Swiss history, early modern European politics, and decorative cartography. with its heraldic panel and panoramic city view, this example is both a fascinating historical document and a striking decorative map suitable for display. Condition: Good condition for an early eighteenth-century engraving. Light age toning and some minor edge wear typical of the period. The engraving remains crisp and the original hand coloring is well preserved. Framing tips: This map displays beautifully in a dark walnut or black frame with a generous ivory or cream mat. Such framing highlights the heraldic panel and the panoramic city view while giving the piece a refined museum-quality presentation. Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand coloring Maker: Daniel de la Feuille, Amsterdam, circa 1706 (later atlas editions circa 1747) See less