Hand Colored Antique Map of the Department of Seine Et Marne, France

Antique map titled 'Dépt. de Seine et Marne'. map of the French department of Seine Et Marne, France. This region produces a wide variety of wines and hosts an annual wine and cheese fair. This area is known for its production of a brie-style cheese called “Fromage de Meaux.” Over 25 liters of milk are used produce just one wheel of this raw-milk cheese. When ripe, its rind breaks at the slightest touch, allowing the beautiful, hay-colored, almost liquid paste to ooze out. The map is surrounded by elaborate decorative engravings designed to illustrate both the natural beauty and trade richness of the land. There is a short textual history of the regions depicted on both the left and right sides of the map.

This map originates from 'Atlas National de la France Illustree' published by V. Levasseur, circa 1852. Victor Levasseur (1800–1870) was a French cartographer widely known for his distinctive decorative style. He produced numerous maps more admired for the artistic content of the scenes and data surrounding the map than for the detail of the map. Victor Levasseur's "Atlas National Illustré" and "Atlas Universel Illustré" are among the last great decorative atlases published.

Condition: Good. General age-related toning. Shows some wear and soiling, blank verso. Few small tears/splits in margins. Please study images carefully.

Date: c.1852

Overall size: 36.2 x 51.6 cm.