Bilder Maurice Bouguereau (d. 1596) & Jean Le Clerc (1560–1621) – Map of Poictou – Copperplate Engraving from Le Theatre Francoys (1594)

Beskrivning

This rare and intricately engraved map of Poictou originally appeared in Le Theatre Francoys, the first national atlas of France, published by Maurice Bouguereau and Jean Le Clerc in 1594. The map introduces the region as "Poictou" and credits the now-lost map of Pierre Roger as its source, though it is known to have been significantly inspired by the works of Abraham Ortelius.
The map is highly detailed, showcasing a complex network of cities, towns, rivers, and forests with remarkable precision. Poictou's coastal regions are depicted with textured stippling, adding depth to the representation of the Mer Oceane. The map is further embellished with two ornate title cartouches, reflecting the decorative elegance of late 16th-century cartography. The engraving style is characteristic of Bouguereau and Le Clerc's craftsmanship, blending geographical accuracy with artistic flair.

Maurice Bouguereau was a French printer, bookseller, cartographer, and publisher who worked in Tours. His most significant work was Le Theatre Francoys, marking a milestone in the history of French cartography. Jean Le Clerc, a French geographer, engraver, printer, and publisher, collaborated with Bouguereau on this atlas. Le Clerc later published his own atlas, Le Théâtre géographique du Royaume de France, in 1620, building upon the foundation laid by Bouguereau.

Provenance:
Published in Le Theatre Francoys by Maurice Bouguereau, Tours, 1594.

Artist or Maker:
Maurice Bouguereau & Jean Le Clerc

Dimensions:
42 cm x 53 cm

Medium:
Copperplate Engraving

Date:
1594

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.