France · 19th century
€ 290
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Excellent condition with light age toning to the margins. Centerfold as issued. Plate mark visible. No tears or foxing.
Antique Map of Manche, France – Mont-St-Michel and Cherbourg Region – c.1850
This highly decorative mid-19th century map of Manche, engraved by A. Vuillemin and published by Levasseur in Paris, is a beautifully detailed representation of this northwestern department of France. With hand-colored department borders and finely engraved surrounding vignettes, it forms part of the renowned *Atlas National Illustré*, a series that combined cartographic accuracy with rich illustrative embellishment.
The map features major towns, rivers, roads, and topographic detail, all labeled in delicate copperplate engraving. The department of Manche, named after the English Channel, is bordered by the sea on three sides and includes some of France’s most iconic coastal and historical landmarks.
Particularly striking is the large vignette at the bottom left featuring Mont-Saint-Michel, the famous tidal island and abbey listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also depicted are military figures, coats of arms, and a classical figure likely symbolizing regional strength or patriotism, enhancing the visual impact and collectability of the piece.
This map would appeal to collectors of French regional cartography, military or naval history, or those with connections to Normandy or the D-Day region. The inclusion of dozens of historical towns, ports, and strategic locations makes it valuable for both display and research.
**50 Important Places Featured on the Map and Their Significance:**
1. Saint-Lô – Departmental capital
2. Cherbourg – Major naval port
3. Coutances – Historic cathedral town
4. Avranches – Gateway to Mont-Saint-Michel
5. Valognes – Aristocratic heritage town
6. Granville – Fishing and seaside resort
7. Barfleur – Medieval embarkation port
8. Carentan – WWII battle site
9. Mortain – Strategic WWII location
10. Torigni-sur-Vire – Castle and governance
11. Lessay – Famous Romanesque abbey
12. Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte – Knightly stronghold
13. La Haye-du-Puits – WWII liberation site
14. Montebourg – WWII parachute drop
15. Périers – Battle of Normandy
16. Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouët – Market and pilgrimage site
17. Bréhal – Coastal resort town
18. Ducey – Château and bridges
19. Villedieu-les-Poêles – Copper crafts hub
20. Saint-James – American war cemetery
21. Pontorson – Access to Mont-Saint-Michel
22. Isigny – Butter and dairy center
23. Portbail – Ancient Roman port
24. Quettehou – English landing site
25. Beaumont-Hague – Nuclear research center
26. Bricquebec – Feudal castle ruins
27. Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue – Vauban fortifications
28. Saint-Clair-sur-l’Elle – Strategic river crossing
29. Barneville – Twin town with Carteret
30. Hambye – Abbey ruins site
31. Saint-Pair-sur-Mer – Seaside retreat
32. Canisy – Château and WWII damage
33. Sainte-Mère-Église – First liberated town WWII
34. Jullouville – Coastal holiday spot
35. Donville-les-Bains – Thermal spa town
36. Tourlaville – Industrial suburb of Cherbourg
37. Domjean – Rural charm and church
38. Saint-Laurent-de-Cuves – Cultural festival venue
39. Notre-Dame-de-Cenilly – Parish and heritage site
40. Saint-Denis-le-Gast – Rural historical village
41. Vire – Fortified border town
42. Marigny – WWII battle site
43. Cérences – Local commerce hub
44. Saint-Fromond – River crossing importance
45. Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie – Granite quarry village
46. Percy – Village with church ruins
47. La Glacerie – Near Cherbourg Arsenal
48. Agon-Coutainville – Popular beach resort
49. Roncey – Picturesque countryside commune
50. Le Teilleul – Border village near Mayenne
Condition Report:
Excellent condition with light age toning to the margins. Plate mark visible. No tears or foxing.
Framing Suggestions:
For an elegant and timeless presentation, frame with a dark walnut or black wooden frame and a double mat: outer mat in ivory and inner mat in pale grey or French blue to highlight the coastal theme. Ideal for libraries, living rooms, or offices with a historical or nautical decor.
Technique: Engraving with hand-color
Maker: A. Vuillemin, Paris, circa 1850
Published by: Levasseur, Paris
