Catalog Archive
Auction 124, Lot 28

"Planisphere", Levasseur, Victor

Subject: World

Period: 1845 (circa)

Publication: Atlas Illustre

Color: Hand Color

Size:
16 x 11.4 inches
40.6 x 29 cm
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Victor Levasseur's "Atlas National Illustre" and "Atlas Universel Illustre" are among the last decorative atlases published. The maps are all lavishly illustrated with scenes of the countryside, products and activities indigenous to the region.

This lovely map is presented on Mercator's projection and is surrounded by fine steel engravings including vignettes representing the four seasons, allegorical figures of the continents and several mythical figures, Adam and Eve as well as an astrological banner stretching across the night sky at the top. In North America, a very large Oregon Territory appears on the west coast stretching from California well into British Columbia, reflecting U.S. claims in the region. Texas is named but not delineated.

References:

Condition: A

A nice sturdy example with original wash coloring. There is a little minor marginal toning.

Estimate: $200 - $275

Sold for: $150

Closed on 5/7/2008

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