Catalog Archive
Auction 128, Lot 177

"Carte des Lacs du Canada…", Bellin, Jacques Nicolas

Subject: Canada and United States, Great Lakes

Period: 1780 (published)

Publication: Raynal's Atlas Portatiff

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11.3 x 7.4 inches
28.7 x 18.8 cm
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This is an excellent little map depicting the five Great Lakes. While this map uses the same title as Bellin's prototype map of the Great Lakes, published in Charlevoix’s Histoire et Description Generale de la Nouvelle France in 1744, it has been updated with information from Bellin's similar map of 1755. Lakes Erie and Ontario are more accurately defined and the spurious islands in Lake Huron have been eliminated. However, several large, bogus islands still remain in Lake Superior, including I. Philippeaux. The Michigan peninsula is still misshapen with a massive mountain range down its center. Numerous forts are located: S. Ignace, Niagara, des Miamis, and Toronto to mention a few. A simple title cartouche adorns the map.

References: Kershaw #956; cf Tooley (MCC-96) #871; cf Portinaro & Knirsch, pl. 243.

Condition: A+

Estimate: $550 - $650

Sold for: $475

Closed on 5/20/2009

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