A New and Accurate Map of France, from the Latest Improvements and Regulated by Astronomical Observations

A New and Accurate Map of France, from the Latest Improvements and Regulated by Astronomical Observations — published by Bankes, by Royal Authority, this finely engraved and hand-colored map presents a meticulous depiction of France as known during the late 18th or early 19th century. Produced under royal authority, it reflects both the scientific rigor and aesthetic refinement that characterized Enlightenment-era cartography.

The map delineates provincial and regional boundaries with hand-colored borders, providing clear visual distinction between France’s administrative divisions. Major cities, towns, rivers, and mountain ranges are carefully indicated, demonstrating attention to both political and physical geography. The map’s accuracy is enhanced by astronomical observations, ensuring precise placement of settlements, waterways, and topographical features. Its scale allows for a detailed survey of France while retaining clarity for practical use, including navigation, administration, and educational purposes.

Engraved on high-quality paper, the map’s hand coloring highlights provincial borders, river courses, and key regions, adding visual richness and aiding interpretability. The elegant linework, proportionate layout, and legible inscriptions reflect the craftsmanship of the period and the authority of the royal endorsement.

Collectors and historians value this map for its historical significance, providing a snapshot of France’s geography and administrative organization before the sweeping territorial changes of the 19th century. Its combination of scientific precision, artistic presentation, and hand coloring makes it both a practical reference and a decorative object. As an official map produced by royal authority, it also illustrates the role of cartography in governance and knowledge dissemination during the Enlightenment.

This map remains a remarkable example of 18th- or early 19th-century French cartography, prized for its accuracy, beauty, and insight into contemporary geographical understanding.