France
€ 120
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Excellent impression with mild toning to the edges and a few small, scattered foxing marks. The hand-coloring remains vivid and the engraving is sharp and detailed.
Map of Ardèche France with Annonay and Vineyards by Vuillemin, 19th c
This beautifully engraved 19th-century map of Ardèche, a department in southeastern France, comes from Alexandre Vuillemin’s *Nouvel Atlas Illustré*, published in Paris by Migeon. The map offers a detailed and artistic representation of the region, enhanced by vignettes, coats of arms, and historical references that highlight Ardèche’s cultural and natural richness.
The map presents the department’s full geographical scope with towns, rivers, and road networks, bordered by hand-applied yellow watercolor. Key locations such as Annonay, Privas, and Aubenas are clearly marked. The engraving also depicts the rugged terrain for which the Ardèche is well known, including the mountainous Massif Central and deep river gorges. In the upper left is a vignette of the town of Annonay, famous as the birthplace of the Montgolfier brothers, pioneers of balloon flight. Below that is a depiction of the natural stone arch of the Pont d’Arc, one of the most iconic landmarks in the region.
In the lower right corner, a striking scene depicts Joseph Marie Jacquard presenting his invention of the Jacquard loom, symbolizing Ardèche’s historical contributions to the textile industry. Jacquard’s automated loom was a key innovation in the development of modern weaving.
Ardèche is also a celebrated wine-producing region, especially in the southern part of the department near the Rhône Valley. The area is known for its rustic, characterful wines, including red blends made from Grenache, Syrah, and Merlot, as well as fresh white wines from Viognier and Chardonnay grapes. These wines are often labeled under the Côtes du Vivarais and Coteaux de l’Ardèche designations. The region’s climate and diverse terroirs make it an increasingly respected area within the Rhône wine landscape.
Alexandre Vuillemin, a skilled 19th-century French cartographer, was renowned for blending geography with artistic and cultural elements in his maps. His works were both decorative and informative, aimed at a growing educated public. The publisher, Migeon, was known for high-quality atlases that brought historical and geographic knowledge to a broad audience.
Condition summary:
Excellent impression with mild toning to the edges and a few small, scattered foxing marks. The hand-coloring remains vivid and the engraving is sharp and detailed.
Framing tips:
A classic dark wood or olive-toned frame will highlight the natural character of the Ardèche region. A warm off-white or light tan mat works well to emphasize the yellow hand-coloring. Use UV-protective glass for preservation.
