About this sheet
Map of Loire France with Saint-Étienne and Montbrison by Vuillemin, 19th c
This beautifully engraved and hand-colored map of the department of Loire in east-central France is from the Nouvel Atlas Illustré by Alexandre Vuillemin, published in the mid-19th century by Migeon in Paris. Combining precise cartographic detail with fine decorative embellishment, this map offers both historical and aesthetic value.
The map covers the full extent of the Loire department, situated in the historical province of Forez, now part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Roads, rivers, towns, and borders are carefully engraved and hand-tinted with a pale blue wash that highlights the department’s boundary. Notable towns such as Saint-Étienne, Roanne, and Montbrison are clearly marked, along with smaller villages and the surrounding mountain ranges.
In the lower left is a portrait of the celebrated poet and dramatist Jean-Baptiste Gallet, born in Montbrison, symbolizing the literary heritage of the region. The right side of the map is richly adorned with engraved vignettes: one of a rural hilltop chapel and another sweeping view of the landscape with a town in the background, offering a picturesque impression of the region’s topography and architecture.
The Loire department is not part of the more famous Loire Valley wine-producing region to the west, but it does have a smaller, respected wine appellation: Côte Roannaise AOC, located near the northern border of the department. This area produces fresh, light-bodied red wines predominantly from the Gamay grape, similar in style to Beaujolais. These wines are increasingly appreciated for their authenticity and food-friendly profile. The nearby Côtes du Forez and IGP Urfé also contribute to the local wine culture, making the department a lesser-known but emerging wine destination in France.
Alexandre Vuillemin, the engraver, was a distinguished 19th-century French cartographer who excelled in combining detailed geography with cultural, historical, and artistic references. His work for Migeon in the Nouvel Atlas Illustré reflects the ambition to educate and visually engage a broad public audience.
Condition summary:
Very good condition. Mild age toning around the edges with a few faint spots in the margins. Engraved lines are sharp, and the hand-coloring is bright and well-preserved.
Framing tips:
This map pairs beautifully with a classic maple or gold-trimmed frame. Use a warm ivory or pale blue mat to complement the hand-colored border. A museum-quality glass is recommended to preserve the fine details and original color over time.
Notable Locations Featured on the Map of Loire (France):
This 19th-century engraved map by Alexandre Vuillemin includes a wealth of geographic detail from the department of Loire. Below are 50 of the most prominent towns, communes, and landmarks shown, offering insight into the region’s historical, economic, and cultural landscape:
