Antique Map of the Middle East, 1795

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This finely engraved and original hand-colored map titled Partie Orientale de la Carte des Anciennes Monarchies was published in Paris … Read more This finely engraved and original hand-colored map titled Partie Orientale de la Carte des Anciennes Monarchies was published in Paris by Charles François Delamarche and Félix Delamarche around 1795. It represents the eastern portion of a larger geographical concept illustrating the territories of the ancient world. The map covers a vast and historically significant region stretching from the eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea across Persia and Mesopotamia into Central Asia and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Regions such as Bactria, Hyrcania, Parthia, and Scythia are clearly delineated, reflecting the Enlightenment-era fascination with classical antiquity and ancient empires. Based on earlier work by Gilles Robert de Vaugondy, this map demonstrates the transmission and refinement of geographical knowledge across generations of French cartographers. The Delamarche firm acquired and updated important plates, bringing them into a late 18th-century context with improved engraving and clarity. Visually, the map is elegant and balanced, with delicate outline hand coloring used to distinguish regions without overwhelming the composition. A particularly attractive feature is the inset globe in the upper right corner, showing Asia and Africa in hemispherical projection, providing broader geographic context. The engraved title and Latin inscription across the top further enhance its intellectual and decorative appeal. Maps of this type were produced for educational and scholarly purposes, offering a synthesis of classical sources and contemporary cartographic understanding. Today, they are appreciated both for their historical significance and their understated decorative quality, making them well suited for collectors interested in classical geography, the Near East, and Enlightenment cartography. Note: Interior mockups shown are for visual inspiration only and do not represent the exact scale. We do not sell reproductions, only original works of art over 100 years old.

Condition: Good antique condition with age toning and light foxing. Central fold as issued. Some light handling wear to the margins and a few tears touching the image. The engraving remains sharp and the original hand coloring is well preserved. Framing tips: This map benefits from a wide ivory or off-white mount to emphasize its refined engraving. A walnut or gilded frame complements the warm tones of the paper and enhances its late 18th-century character. Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand coloring Maker: Delamarche family (after Vaugondy), Paris, circa 1795 See less