Bilder Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d'Anville (1697–1782) – Map of the Province of Quito (Perou) – Engraving (1751)

Beskrivning

This engraving presents a comprehensive topographical map of the South American region surrounding the city of Quito, titled Carte de la Province de Quito au Perou. The composition provides a detailed survey of the Andes mountain range, illustrating numerous peaks, volcanic ranges, and river systems that flow toward the Pacific coast and the Amazon basin. The map depicts major settlements, administrative divisions, and significant coastal features such as the Golfe de Guayaquil and the Equateur ou Ligne Equinoctiale. A large decorative cartouche in the upper left corner states that the work was drawn from astronomical observations and geographical measurements made by members of the French Geodesic Mission, including Charles Marie de La Condamine. This illustration served as a technical reference for eighteenth-century readers to understand the complex geography and scientific exploration of the Spanish colonial territories in South America.

Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d'Anville was a preeminent French cartographer and geographer who revolutionized the field of mapmaking through his commitment to scientific accuracy. Unlike many of his predecessors, he insisted on leaving unknown territories blank rather than filling them with imaginary features, a practice that earned him a reputation for unparalleled reliability. During his long career, he produced over two hundred maps, serving as the royal geographer to the King of France and contributing significantly to the Diderot and d'Alembert Encyclopedia. His maps of Asia, Africa, and the Americas were considered the standard technical references for decades, reflecting the Enlightenment era's transition toward modern, data-driven cartography.

Artist or Maker: Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d'Anville .

Dimensions: Approximately 63 cm x 38 cm .

Medium: Engraving .

Date: 1751

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.