Bilder Nicolas Sanson (1600–1667) – Map of Scotland – United Kingdom – Hand-coloured engraving (1665)

Beskrivning

"L'Escosse de-la les Shires ou Comtés." This hand-coloured engraving provides a systematic geographical survey of Scotland, organized by its traditional shires and counties. The cartography delineates the complex northern coastline, the Hebrides, and the Orkney Islands with technical clarity. Inland, the map identifies major mountain ranges, lochs, and river systems, along with the locations of principal towns and ecclesiastical centers. A decorative title cartouche is featured in the lower left corner, characterized by symmetrical architectural elements and floral swags typical of the mid-seventeenth-century French cartographic style. This work was published in Paris and represents the Sanson workshop efforts to document the political and physical geography of the British Isles during the reign of Louis XIV.

Nicolas Sanson was a preeminent French cartographer often cited as the father of French geography. He began his career as a military engineer but soon turned to the systematic mapping of European provinces, eventually earning the title of Geographer to the King. His workshop in Paris became the center of a cartographic dynasty, known for replacing the decorative Dutch style with a more scientific approach that prioritized geographic accuracy and administrative clarity. Sanson maps were instrumental in the reorganization of the French state and remained the standard reference for European geographers and military planners for several generations. His legacy is defined by his monumental atlas projects and his role in establishing France as the leading scientific center for cartographic production in the seventeenth century.

Artist or Maker: Nicolas Sanson.

Dimensions: Approximately 51 cm x 63 cm.

Medium: Hand-coloured engraving.

Date: 1665.

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.