"Planisphere", Levasseur, Victor

Victor Levasseur's "Atlas National Illustre" and "Atlas Universel Illustre" are among the last decorative atlases published. The maps are all lavishly illustrated with scenes of the countryside, products and activities indigenous to the region.

This lovely steel engraved map is from one of the last decorative atlases of the nineteenth century. It is drawn on Mercator's classic projection and is surrounded by fine steel engravings including vignettes representing the four seasons, allegorical figures of the continents and several mythical figures, Adam and Eve, and an astrological banner stretching across the night sky at the top. In North America, a very large Oregon Territory appears on the west coast stretching from California well into British Columbia, reflecting U.S. claims in the region. Texas is named separately as an Independent Republic but is not delineated.

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Condition: A+

A fine example with dark impression, original coloring on the map, and full margins. Modern full hand coloring highlights the surrounding scenes. A few very small spots in wide, blank margins still fine.