Nicolas Sanson (1600–1667) – Map of Picardy and the Catholic Low Countries / Picardie et les Pays Bas Catholiques – ...

Nicolas Sanson (1600–1667) – Map of Picardy and the Catholic Low Countries / Picardie et les Pays Bas Catholiques – Large Copperplate Engraving (Paris, 1667)
This map titled Picardie et les Pays Bas Catholiques presents a detailed view of northern France and the southern Low Countries as they stood in the 17th century. It includes Picardy, Artois, Cambrésis, Hainaut, Namur, and parts of Brabant and Flanders. The map distinguishes the Catholic provinces of the Low Countries, then under Habsburg rule, from the Protestant United Provinces to the north. Cities, rivers, borders, and topography are clearly rendered in the elegant French cartographic style established by Nicolas Sanson. The elegant cartouche in the upper right names Nicolas Sanson d’Abbeville, royal geographer to the King of France and one of the founding figures of French scientific cartography. Known for his precision and minimalist style, Sanson broke with Dutch decorative conventions to emphasize geographic accuracy and political clarity. This map was published in Paris in 1648 with royal privilege.Artist or Maker: Nicolas SansonDimensions: 58 cm x 45 cmMedium: Copperplate EngravingDate: 1667Condition 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.