For sale: a splendid and rare original antique map of Corsica from 1768.
This extraordinary map, titled Carte de l'Isle de Corse, was created by the renowned French cartographer Jacques-Nicolas Bellin for the Royal Navy in 1768 and is a piece of historical and collectible value.
The sheet appears to be entirely original and printed on authentic 18th-century laid paper, revealing the typical artisanal texture when held up to the light, with the watermark threads clearly visible in the thickness of the paper.
The hypothetical absolute proof of authenticity is found in the corner of the sheet, where, when held up to the light, the original watermark appears, with the wording PLANIA and the year 1749 surmounted by a paper symbol. This mark, impressed directly into the paper pulp, excludes any modern reproduction or subsequent industrial reprint.
The map is in good overall condition and is unframed, allowing for easy inspection of the integrity of the margins and the purity of the paper. On the back, there is a period inscription in pencil with the text "Merl1/23 Pittore," likely from an old inventory or a private collection.
A magnificent and fascinating work, ideal for collectors of vintage maps and antiques enthusiasts.
Dimensions: 53x39 cm
(I do not have a certificate of authenticity, but it has all the technical specifications and is not a guarantee.)
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBeigeMaterialPaperNumber of items1OrientationLandscapeArt sizeMediumHeight39 cmWidth53 cm