This French atlas is one of the most decorative atlases of the late 19th century. In addition to being hand colored, the majority of the maps feature one or more superb vignettes showcasing key cities or monuments from the region. The atlas contains 43 maps (41 of which are double-page), including one celestial chart, six historical maps, and 37 modern maps. The modern maps consist of 2 world, 18 of Europe, 4 of Asia, 8 of Africa, 4 of the Americas, and 1 of Oceania. Each map is accompanied by two pages of text with geographical, political and historical information about the region. The map of the United States shows an extensive system of roads, several territories, and a lovely vignette of the US Capitol in Washington, DC. The maps are all single-sided and tipped into the atlas with back straps.

The decorative title page is printed in red and black and features a vignette of Cybele, the goddess of towns, pointing to a location on a globe, surrounded by instruments representing the arts, sciences, agriculture, and war. Behind her are inventions both old and new: the Sphinx and great pyramids of Giza and a ship, as well as a steam locomotive and a hot air balloon.

Folio, with original brown pebbled cloth covers with gilt embossed titling and decorations on spine and covers.

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Condition: A

The maps are almost all near fine, with light toning along sheet edges. A couple of maps have a few small spots of foxing. The binding is sound with light wear to covers and spine.