Antique Map of Picardy, Aroits and French Flanders by Bonne (c.1780)

Description: Antique map titled 'Carte des Gouvernements de Flandre Francoise, d'Artois, de Picardie et du Boulenois.' An attractive example of Rigobert Bonne's 1771 decorative map of the French regions of Picardy, Artois, and French Flanders. Covers the region in full from the English Chanel to Normandy. A large decorative title cartouche appears in the upper right. Source unknown, to be determined.

Artists and Engravers: Rigobert Bonne (1727-1795 ) was one of the most important cartographers of the late 18th century. In 1773 he succeeded Jacques Bellin as Royal Cartographer to France in the office of the Hydrographer at the Depôt de la Marine. Working in his official capacity Bonne compiled some of the most detailed and accurate maps of the period. Bonne's work represents an important step in the evolution of the cartographic ideology away from the decorative work of the 17th and early 18th century towards a more detail oriented and practical aesthetic. With regard to the rendering of terrain Bonne maps bear many stylistic similarities to those of his predecessor, Bellin. However, Bonne maps generally abandon such common 18th century decorative features such as hand coloring, elaborate decorative cartouches, and compass roses. While mostly focusing on coastal regions, the work of Bonne is highly regarded for its detail, historical importance, and overall aesthetic appeal.