Bonne Map of Philippines, Formosa, Siam, Indochina & South China, 1780

€ 250

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1780
Sheet size: 26 × 37 cm (10.2 × 14.6 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BGSH-030

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Good condition. Original hand coloring. Light age toning and minor foxing to margins. Centerfold as issued. A few small edge nicks not affecting image. Paper remains strong with good plate impression and no restoration.

About this sheet

Bonne Map of Philippines, Formosa, Siam, Indochina & South China, 1780

Les Isles Philippines, celle de Formose, le Sud de la Chine, les Royaumes de Tunkin, de Cochinchine, de Camboge, de Siam des Laos.

Original 1780 copperplate-engraved map with hand coloring by renowned French cartographer Rigobert Bonne (1727–1795), hydrographer to the French Navy. This detailed and elegant map spans the Philippines, Formosa (Taiwan), southern China, and much of mainland Southeast Asia, including the kingdoms of Siam (Thailand), Laos, Cambodia, Cochinchina, and Tonkin (Vietnam).

Praised for its geographical accuracy and refined engraving style, Bonne’s map features coastlines, mountain ranges, rivers, and settlements, along with inset maps of the Isle de Guam and surrounding Pacific islands. The use of color and shading highlights territorial divisions and topography.

A fine and historically significant map, now a valued reference for historians, collectors, and researchers of 18th-century Southeast Asia.

Framing Tips:
- Use UV-protective glass to prevent fading of hand coloring.
- Acid-free mat and backing to preserve paper quality.
- Float-mount if edges or plate mark should remain visible.
- Choose a classic wooden or gilt frame to match the antique aesthetic.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity.