Levasseur Antique Map Of Asia Asie From The Atlas National Illustre Appraisal

Levasseur Antique Map of Asia (Asie) from the 'Atlas National Illustre'

This is a nineteenth-century steel-engraved map of Asia, titled 'ASIE', produced by Victor Levasseur for his celebrated 'Atlas National Illustre'. The piece is printed on cream-colored paper and features an intricately detailed central cartographic representation of the Asian continent, characterized by fine black line work and subtle hand-colored topographical borders. The map is framed by an elaborate decorative border known as 'vignettes,' which are a hallmark of Levasseur's style. These vignettes include classical allegorical figures, exotic wildlife such as rhinoceroses and elephants, and various scenes depicting the cultures, architecture, and inhabitants of different Asian regions. Specifically, the left side features a seated royal figure and detailed French text, while the right includes a table of indigenous populations and tropical foliage. The top and bottom margins are adorned with circular and oval medallions showcasing diverse cultural scenes and maritime vessels. Regarding condition, the paper shows visible signs of age including significant foxing (reddish-brown spots) concentrated along the upper and lower margins and light water staining throughout. There is a slight curl to the paper, suggesting it has been stored unframed. The fine-line engraving remains sharp, indicating a high-quality strike from the original steel plate, likely dating between 1845 and 1860. The craftsmanship reflects the peak of French decorative cartography, combining geographic accuracy with artistic flair.