54 Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d’Anville (1697–1782) – Map of the Eastern Part of the Roman Empire / Orbis Romani Pars Orientalis – Large Copperplate Engraving (1764, published 1794)

This large and highly detailed map represents the eastern part of the Roman Empire, including Asia Minor, the Levant, Mesopotamia, Arabia, and parts of Egypt and North Africa. It was drawn by Jean-Baptiste Bourguignon d’Anville in 1764 under the patronage of Louis Philippe, Duke of Orléans, and later published by Laurie & Whittle in London on May 12th, 1794. The map is based on ancient sources and Roman geography, reflecting d’Anville’s methodical reconstruction of the classical world. It features Latin toponyms, ancient provinces, and geographic divisions as understood in antiquity, making it a cornerstone example of Enlightenment-era classical cartography.

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:

1764 (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.