16 Nicholas Fils Sanson (1600–1647) & Chevigny – Miniature Map of Spain, Portugal and the Balearic Islands / Carte d’Espagne, Portugal, Majorque et Ibiza – Hand-Colored Etching (1782)

This finely engraved miniature map presents the Iberian Peninsula with detailed depictions of Spain and Portugal, as well as the Balearic Islands — Majorca (Mallorca), Ibiza, and Minorca — off the eastern coast. The coastlines and internal regions are clearly delineated, with elegant hand-coloring highlighting the territorial divisions. Published in 1782, this map is part of La Science des personnes de cour, d'épée et de robe by Chevigny, a unique educational compendium that blended geography with instruction in courtly behavior and aristocratic education.

Hand-coloured copper engraving, originates from The Science of Court Persons, of Sword and of Toga, by the Lord of Chevigny, 1782.

Nicholas Fils Sanson(1600–1647), known as the father of French cartography, was a key figure in 17th-century mapmaking. Though he died relatively young, his works remained influential for decades and were reused in later compilations. Chevigny, active in the second half of the 18th century, reissued Sanson's maps within his educational and aristocratic guidebooks, preserving their scientific and aesthetic value within Enlightenment pedagogy.

Artist or Maker:

Nicholas Fils Sanson & Chevigny

Dimensions:

14 cm x 18 cm

Medium:

Etching

Date:

1782

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.