Contemporary hand-colored engraving by l' Abbé Expilly, 1780
€125.00
This authentic antique print, measuring 11.6 cm × 9.8 cm , created by l' Abbé Expilly as a fine example of Contemporary hand-colored engraving work from the 18th Century (1700s).
It is preserved in Very Good condition and displays remarkable period craftsmanship.
1 in stock
This miniature map of Africa was created by Mr. l’Abbé Expilly and published in 1780. The finely engraved map shows the African continent with detailed place names including Ethiopie, Barbarie, Maroc, Nubie, and Madagascar. Later handcolouring adds warmth and contrast to the delicate engraving. The small, precise format reflects the elegant style of 18th‑century French mapmaking and offers a fascinating look into the period’s geographic understanding.
The map measures 9.8 x 11.6 cm and is in very good condition. The original folds remain visible, as published. Collectors admire this miniature map of Africa for its charm, accuracy, and rarity. It makes an excellent addition to any collection of early engraved maps. VAT: Margingoods, no VAT.
Explore our entire collection of City Views, antique maps, Botanical prints and much more at our store located in the historic heart of Haarlem.
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During the 18th century, mapmaking became more scientific and precise. Improved instruments like the telescope and chronometer helped cartographers increase accuracy, shifting maps from decorative art to factual documents. Copperplate engraving stayed as the main printing method, producing fine lines, while hand-coloring added visual impact. French cartographers, such as the Cassini family, led national surveys with geodetic measurements and triangulation, while Dutch mapmakers like Joan Blaeu enhanced printing and atlas quality, ushering in a golden age of atlases.
Maps began including more information and notes to help users, and ornate decorations mostly gave way to scientific clarity, except for cartouches and borders. National and colonial ambitions guided map production to aid navigation and territorial claims. By the late 18th century, large-scale surveys set modern cartography standards. Today, 18th-century maps mix scientific knowledge with artistry, are prized by collectors, and have influenced later cartographic methods. They offer insights into Enlightenment exploration and geography.
| Dimensions | 11.6 × 9.8 cm |
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| Artist | |
| Condition | |
| Era | |
| Frame | No Frame |
| Orientation | |
| Technique | Contemporary hand-colored engraving |
| Publish Date | 1780 |
Our antique prints are carefully packaged to ensure safe arrival.
Smaller prints are shipped in acid-free, flat protective packaging, while larger works are securely rolled and sent in a sturdy tube to preserve their condition.
Netherlands: €7.50 —
European Union: €15
Outside the EU: On request (contact us for an exact quote)
We offer custom framing for all prints, from classic antique frames to contemporary minimalist styles.
Choose any print from the collection
We discuss frame styles, materials & pricing
The print will be professionally framed and shipped via courier for maximum safety
If you would like your print framed, please contact us, we are happy to advise on styles and options.
Our highest classification. These prints are clean, bright, and exceptionally well-preserved, featuring a strong and crisp image. No notable imperfections.
Prints in this condition show a clean, sharp image. Paper quality or margin size may vary slightly. Minor age-related characteristics, such as small wormholes, light toning, or tiny separations may be present depending on the print date.
No major imperfections. Any minor flaws or historical repairs are fully noted in the product description. Overall a well-preserved and collectible piece.
These prints show noticeable imperfections such as foxing, weaker image strength, or longer separations, but remain collectible. All visible characteristics are clearly described.
