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"Credit Lyonnais Fonde en 1863 - Afrique du Nord & Union Francaise",

This gorgeous pictorial map of northwestern Africa was designed by Lucien Boucher for French bank Credit Lyonnais. Published around the end of World War II, the map presents an idyllic view of French colonial holdings in Africa at a crucial moment between Free France and decolonization. The map spans from Tunis to the mouth of the Congo, with charming illustrations of the architecture, peoples, resources, and wild life of the region filling the landscape. Main branches of the bank are located in several cities, including Tunis, Algiers, Casablanca, Dakar, Conakry, Lome, Douala, and Pointe-Noire. One overseas branch is shown in Lisbon, while sub-branches are identified throughout the Maghreb with little white stars. Much of the interior is dominated by a huge title cartouche/bank advertisement, which emphasizes the exports of the region. Ships and sea creatures fill the waters. The composition also features a large ornate compass rose. Printed in Paris by Perceval.

Boucher (1889-1971) was a French commercial artist inspired by the Surrealists. He found regular work designing movie posters and other advertisements, but he is best known for his series of posters for Air France.

References: Rumsey #8464.

Condition: B+

A colorful example with minor foxing along the bottom border, a hint of toning along the sheet edges, and pinholes in the blank margins.