Bilder Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (1703–1772) – Map of the Kingdoms of Congo, Angola, and Benguela – Copperplate engraving (1754)

Beskrivning

This geographical map depicts the western coast of Africa, spanning the historical kingdoms of Congo, Angola, and Benguela. The illustration details the Atlantic coastline from the Equator down to Cape Negro, featuring significant river systems such as the Zaire (Congo) and the Coanza. Interior regions are marked with tribal territories including the Jaggas, Mousoles, and Anzicos, alongside early European colonial outposts like Loanda and San Salvador. The topography is characterized by stylized mountain ranges and forests, with an elaborate rococo title cartouche positioned on the left side, containing a mileage scale in French and English leagues. This work was originally produced to illustrate Prevost’s monumental travel collection, based on the latest naval observations of the mid-18th century.

Jacques-Nicolas Bellin was a preeminent French hydrographer and geographer who served as the official cartographer to the French Navy for over five decades. He was a founding member of the Académie de Marine and a fellow of the Royal Society of London, earning high acclaim for his systematic approach to maritime charting. Bellin was responsible for the monumental "Petit Atlas Maritime" and provided hundreds of maps for the "Histoire Générale des Voyages," which served as the primary source of geographical knowledge for the French Enlightenment. His maps are celebrated for their technical accuracy and their role in documenting the expanding European understanding of global coastlines and colonial territories during the 18th century.

Artist or Maker:
Jacques-Nicolas Bellin.

Dimensions:
Approximately 39 cm x 27 cm.

Medium:
Copperplate engraving.

Date:
1754.

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.