Asia China Empire, Chinese walls antique map by Bonne 1786
Title: Carte de L’Empire de la China Et du Royaume de Coree avec les Isles du Japan 1786
Early map of the Empire of China, in hand coloring.
Map maker: Rigobert Bonne (France, 1727–1795)
Royal Cartographer to France in the office of the Hydrographer at Depot de la Marine.
In 1773 Bonne succeeded Jacques Bellin as Royal Cartographer to France in the office of the Hydrographer at the Depôt de la Marine. Working in his official capacity, Bonne compiled some of the most detailed and accurate maps of the period. Bonne’s work represents an important step in the evolution of the cartographic ideology away from the decorative work of the 17th and early 18th century towards a more detail oriented and practical aesthetic. With regard to the rendering of terrain Bonne maps bear many stylistic similarities to those of his predecessor, Bellin. However, Bonne maps generally abandon such common 18th century decorative features such as hand coloring, elaborate decorative cartouches, and compass roses.
Size: Sheet app.: 26 x 37.5 cm. 10.25 x 15 inches. Image app.: 21.5 x 32 cm. 8.5 x 12.5 inches. Condition: Very good, light spots in border, fold as published.
