"Atlas Universel par Robert Geographe", Robert de Vaugondy/Delamarche

This title page typifies the flourishing baroque and rococo style of French design and engraving that gained popularity in the latter part of the 18th century. The title is enclosed by scenes including four queens representing the continents. At lower right is Minerva who stands for Europe and wisdom. On the left are Asia, with her attribute the camel, and Africa holding an elephant tusk and riding a lion. America is shown as a muscular Amazon queen with a bow and quiver of arrows. The sun-god Apollo gallops across the heavens in his chariot and at center, a flock of adorable putti frolic around a large globe.

References: cf Shirley (TP) #87.

Condition: A

Expertly remargined at left binding side. There is some residual soil in the blank margins.