53 Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d’Anville (1697–1782) – Map of the Western Part of the Roman Empire / Orbis Romani Pars Occidentalis – Large Copperplate Engraving (1763, published 1794)

This historically significant map depicts the western provinces of the Roman Empire, including Britannia, Gallia, Hispania, Italia, and North Africa. Originally created by Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d’Anville in 1763 under the patronage of Louis Philippe, Duke of Orléans, it was published by Laurie & Whittle in London on May 12th, 1794. The map features Latin inscriptions and classical territorial divisions, offering a comprehensive reconstruction of Roman political geography based on ancient texts and archaeological sources. It served as a key reference for scholars and historians during the Enlightenment and continues to be admired for its precision and clarity.

Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d’Anville (1697–1782) was one of the most influential geographers of the 18th century. Known for his scholarly rigor, he revolutionized mapmaking by relying solely on historical texts, archaeological records, and verified measurements. He was appointed Royal Geographer to the King of France and was a member of the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres. His maps of the ancient world, including the Orbis Romani, are renowned for their accuracy and remain foundational in the field of historical cartography.

Artist or Maker:

Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d’Anville (1697–1782), published by Laurie & Whittle

Dimensions:

73 cm x 54 cm

Medium:

Engraving

Date:

1763 (published 1794)

Condition Report:

This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.