Antique Atlas Map of Geneva and Léman from Blaeu, 1642

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Lake Geneva Antique Blaeu Atlas Map of Geneva and Léman, 1642 This beautiful original hand-colored map depicts Lake Geneva (Lac … Read more Lake Geneva Antique Blaeu Atlas Map of Geneva and Léman, 1642 This beautiful original hand-colored map depicts Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) and the surrounding territories of present-day Switzerland and France. Published by Willem Janszoon Blaeu in Amsterdam in the 1642 edition of Toonneel des Aerdrycx, the map is one of the most attractive regional maps of the Alpine world produced during the Dutch Golden Age of cartography. Centered on Lake Geneva itself, the map encompasses Geneva, Lausanne, Vevey, Thonon, Rolle, Nyon, and numerous smaller towns and villages that lined the shores of the lake during the seventeenth century. The surrounding Alpine and Jura mountain ranges are depicted in remarkable detail, creating a dramatic landscape that highlights the strategic and commercial importance of this crossroads between France, Savoy, and the Swiss territories. The map was based on the work of the Genevan cartographer Jacques Goulart, whose name appears within the elaborate title cartouche. Blaeu's engravers transformed the regional survey into an elegant atlas map enriched with decorative elements. A magnificent cartouche incorporating heraldic arms and attendant figures dominates the lower right corner, while a finely engraved compass rose radiates across the waters of the lake. Ships sailing on Lake Geneva add further decorative interest and emphasize the importance of waterborne transportation and trade. Lake Geneva has long been one of Europe's most celebrated landscapes, surrounded by historic cities, vineyards, mountain passes, and commercial routes connecting northern Europe with Italy and the Mediterranean. This map captures the region during a period of political and economic growth and remains one of the most desirable early maps of western Switzerland and the Franco-Swiss borderlands. Keywords: Lake Geneva, Lac Léman, Geneva, Genève, Lausanne, Vevey, Nyon, Rolle, Thonon, Savoy, Switzerland, Swiss Alps, Jura Mountains, Rhône River, Franco-Swiss border, Jacques Goulart, Willem Janszoon Blaeu, Amsterdam, 1642, Dutch Golden Age cartography, antique map, hand-colored map, Alpine map, Swiss history, Lake Geneva region. Special note: This is an original 17th-century map, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The map is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be on scale with the original. Condition Report Original centerfold as issued. Original hand color. Light age toning with minor wear consistent with age. Small marginal imperfections and occasional faint spotting. Overall a clean, attractive example with strong color and impression. Framing Tips This map displays exceptionally well in a dark walnut, ebonized, or lightly gilded frame with an ivory museum mat. The elegant cartouche, compass rose, and Alpine scenery make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, mountain homes, and classic European interiors. Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand color Maker: Willem Janszoon Blaeu, Amsterdam, 1642 See less