Title: MAPPEMONDE ou Carte Réduite des Parties Connues du Globe pour servir au Voyage de Lapérouse, Fait dans les Années 1785, 86, 87, et 88.
Publication Date: 1797 (Paris)
Identification: Marked "Atlas du Voyage de La Pérouse No. 1." in the upper left margin.
Description:
Up for sale is an authentic, 18th-century copperplate engraving of the iconic Lapérouse world map. Published posthumously in Paris in 1797, this historically significant map was designed to document the ill-fated Pacific scientific expedition led by French explorer Jean-François de Galaup, comte de Lapérouse between 1785 and 1788. 41.3" 25.2"
Centering on the Pacific Ocean, this map represents the pinnacle of late Enlightenment-era cartography. It prominently showcases Lapérouse’s precise corrections and discoveries along the Pacific Northwest coast of North America, Alaska, and Northeast Asia (including the Tartary coast and Sakhalin).
Authenticity Indicators Present:
- Plate Mark: Clear, distinct indentation borders around the map edges from the original copperplate pressing.
- Blank Verso: The back of the map is blank, confirming it was originally bound into an atlas collection rather than a standard book.
- Original Fold Lines: Features the correct structural folds matching its original 1797 atlas publication format.
- Paper Quality: Shows authentic late 18th-century hand-made chain-lined paper characteristics with deckled, uneven margins.
Condition Report:
The map is in beautiful antique condition. The paper shows a gentle, natural age-toning and light foxing consistent with its 220+ year age. The copperplate ink remains dark, crisp, and highly legible. The outer margins are fully intact with some minor handling wear and deckled edges. No major tears or modern repairs. Please review the high-resolution photos carefully to inspect the exact condition, plate marks, and reverse side.
Shipping:
We can discuss preferred shipping. A tube is recommended.