Subject: Western Africa
Period: 1750 (dated)
Publication: Hydrographique Francais
Color: Black & White
Size:
34.9 x 21.8 inches
88.6 x 55.4 cm
This striking sea chart covers the western coast of Africa from Sierra Leone to Cape Lopez. Six coastal views and a huge decorative title cartouche fill the interior. The chart is engraved with minute detail including anchorages, navigational hazards, soundings, forts, settlements, and watering places. Bellin, attached to the Depot de la Marine, became hydrographer to the King and a member of the Royal Society of London. He was commissioned to map all the known coasts of the world, resulting in the maps of this superb atlas.
References: Phillips (A) #587- v. 2, 5.
Condition: B+
On a watermarked sheet with light offsetting, a few faint spots in the image, a few edge tears in the top blank margin that have been closed with archival materials, and marginal toning.