Titled ‘Asie’, this antique map derives from an atlas published in Paris 1856 called ‘Atlas Universel Illustre’. It is an engraving with hand-colouring along the borders, outlining country borders including what were then, French colonial territories. Its cartography was compiled by the well-known French geographer Victor Levasseur with illustrations by Raimond Bonheur, whose daughter Rosa Bonheur went on to become a significant artist in her own right.

The Asia depicted in this map is suspended between notions of colonialism and commerce. It is bordered by finely drawn illustrations: Adam and Eve; King Soloman; ten vignettes of Asian customs and cultures; the region’s lush vegetation; and the Great Wall of China, or “grande muraille de Chine”. Each decorative element reflects a Western imagining of Asia, its perceived differences, fecundity and abundance.

Less scientific than imaginative, this map reflects the culture in which it was born. It is an artefact steeped in Enlightenment ideals of discovery, progress and expansion, a fascinating and beautifully rendered glimpse into the world as seen through 19th century eyes. Framed and ready to hang, it will enrich collections of cartography, historical artefacts and French antiques.

Victor LEVASSEUR (1800 - 1870)
'Asie (Antique Map)' c. 1856
Engraving on paper with coloured lines
Image Size: 31 x 46 cm
Dimensions: 55 x 67 x 4 cm
Label on verso reads: 'Imprimerie Lemercier, 57 nue de Seine - Paris; A Paris, chez A. Combette, Edition, neue de la Pancheminneuie, 15 -'
Comes with a Letter of Provenance

Condition: Excellent

(c) The Artist or Assignee