Le Duche d'Aiguillon

Amsterdam: Willem Blaeu. unbound. Map. Engraving with original hand color. Image measures 15 x 19.5".<br/> <br/> This fine antique map by Willem Blaeu depicts the Duchy of Aiguillon, now a commune of the Lot-et-Garonne department of southwest France. The map identifies important towns, fortifications, rivers, vineyards and villages throughout with beautifully rendered mountains and forests.The Garonne river is prominently featured and it's tributary the Lot river. <br> <br> The Lot-et-Garonne region of France is known for its Buzet wines. The map includes three cartouches, including the title cartouche in the top right, all elaborately illustrated with cherubs. In good condition with minor wear along the centerfold and original plate mark visible. Dutch text on verso.<br> <br> Willem Blaeu (1571-1638) was a prolific Dutch mapmaker who started one of the most famous map publishing firms of the 17th century. It was at this time that the Dutch controlled the map trade, and their ornate and beautiful maps had immense popularity. Blaeu was instrumental in driving this dominance in his lifetime, and this legacy was continued by his sons. This map was commissioned by Blaeu and the cartography rendered by Pierre DuVal.<br/> <br/>