Royal French Cartographer Portrait Engraving, 1743

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Title: nicolas de fer, royal french cartographer portrait engraving, 1743 description: original 18th-century engraved portrait of nicolas de fer (1646–1720), … Read more Title: nicolas de fer, royal french cartographer portrait engraving, 1743 description: original 18th-century engraved portrait of nicolas de fer (1646–1720), one of the most important and prolific french cartographers and map publishers of his period. De fer is portrayed within an elegant oval medallion above a richly detailed arrangement of geographical and scientific instruments, including globes, an armillary sphere, dividers and maps. These attributes directly reference his distinguished career in geography and cartography. The inscription identifies de fer as “géographe de sa majesté catholique et de monseigneur le dauphin.” he served as geographer to the french royal family and produced hundreds of maps, atlases and geographical publications during his long career. This portrait was published in paris by jacques-françois bénard in 1743 and was used as a frontispiece to les frontières de france et des pais bas. Bénard, de fer's son-in-law and successor, continued the publication and distribution of his cartographic works following de fer's death. An especially appealing portrait for collectors of antique maps, cartography and the history of science. This example retains exceptionally broad original margins. Sitter nicolas de fer (1646–1720) publisher jacques-françois bénard date 1743 place of publication paris, france publication les frontières de france et des pais bas medium original line engraving on paper period / style french baroque early 18th century subject nicolas de fer cartography geography antique maps history of science french royal court condition: good antique condition. The sheet shows age-related toning, scattered light foxing and spotting, old creases and some wear and irregularity along the outer edges, particularly at the lower margin. The engraved portrait itself remains well preserved with a strong impression and finely defined detail. The exceptionally broad margins are largely intact. Please examine the photographs carefully as they form an integral part of the condition . Framing: offered unframed. Any framed or interior photographs shown are for presentation and inspiration only. Authenticity: original antique 18th-century engraving published in paris in 1743. This is not a modern reproduction. See less