Spain and Portugal - 1762

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At lower right is "grave par E. Dussy,"  the French engraver & draughtsman who produced many maps for Vaugondy.

This fine mid 18th century map of Spain & Portugal is characterized by a charming visual 18th century style and attractive full hand color.  A large pictorial title cartouche is at bottom right, where the mast of a ship may be seen, as well as fruits, a book, anchor, telescope, etc.

Gilles Robert de Vaugondy (1688-1766) and his son Didier were descended from the N. Sanson family and they inherited much of Sanson's cartographic material. They were highly skilled engravers who placed an emphasis upon accurate and precise visual descriptions over the more commonly encountered tendency towards decoration and imaginary (unsubstantiated) geography.

Their aim was not mere cartographic plagiarism in pursuit of profit, but rather a loftier combination of beauty with accuracy and usefulness. Thus, this concept of "Bel et Utile," thoroughly documented in Dr. Mary Pedley's comprehensive monograph on this remarkable cartographic family, is beautifully presented in Vaugondy maps, which (lucky for us) were widely published in the 18th century.

In near fine, clean condition w/ full hand color. A short 1/2" centerfold split at bottom, only in the margin, well outside the engraved area and of no consequence.

Sheet measures 16" x 11 1/2." Map area measures 11" x 9 1/2."

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