France · 17th century
€ 640
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
given age, general age-related soiling and toning. Folding line as issued, with some creasing along the centrefold.. Dutch text on the reverse. Please study scan carefully.
"1644 Janssonius Map of Champagne, France"
This meticulously detailed original antique map, engraved in 1644, is a work by the esteemed cartographer Johannes Janssonius. It depicts the historic province of Champagne, situated in the northeastern part of France. The map is notable for its high level of detail, with meticulously drawn boundaries, city markers, and river courses. It features a beautifully rendered cartouche adorned with the provincial coat of arms, flanked by classical figures, indicative of the region's cultural significance. In the lower left corner, a pair of cherubs are engaged in surveying, symbolizing the scientific endeavor of cartography. The elaborate compass rose and the scale bar further complement the map's utility and artistic merit.
Champagne is renowned globally for its viticultural heritage, being the birthplace of the eponymous Champagne sparkling wine. The region's unique terroir, with its chalky soil and cool climate, is ideal for the production of the grapes used in champagne-making. The historical significance of Champagne extends beyond winemaking; it has been the site of pivotal battles and royal coronations, which shaped the course of French and European history. This map is not only a navigational tool but also a snapshot of a region rich in history and tradition, an artifact that embodies the geographical and cultural prestige of Champagne.
This description provides a detailed visual and contextual presentation of the map, suitable for a catalog entry, emphasizing both its artistic features and the historical and cultural importance of the Champagne region.
THE WINE AREAS:
The Champagne region, known primarily for its production of the sparkling wine that bears its name, encompasses several important cities and sites of historical and cultural significance:
1. **Reims**: Often considered the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, Reims is renowned for its grand cathedral, Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings were historically crowned. The city is also a center for Champagne production.
2. **Épernay**: This town is another key location for Champagne production and is home to many prestigious Champagne houses, which store and age their wines in extensive cellars beneath the town.
3. **Troyes**: A medieval city known for its timber-framed houses and Gothic churches, Troyes also has a rich history in trade and textiles.
4. **Châlons-en-Champagne**: The administrative capital of the region, it features several historical monuments and is known for its beautiful gardens and canals.
5. **Avezzano**: While this is not traditionally associated with the Champagne region of France, it is a city in the Abruzzo region of Italy. If it were to appear on a map titled "Champagne Campania," it might be indicative of a historical naming or mapping convention that is not commonly recognized today.
6. **The Montagne de Reims**: This is a significant natural region in Champagne, known for its forests and vineyards.
7. **The Côte des Blancs**: This is a key winegrowing area famous for Chardonnay grapes.
8. **The Vallée de la Marne**: This area is known for producing excellent Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes.
These locations contribute to the fame of the Champagne region, each adding a layer to its historical tapestry and contemporary renown as a producer of fine wines and a place of rich cultural heritage.
