Diocese de Rheims, et le pais de Rethel; par Jean Jubrien Chalonnois BLAEU, Johannes 17TH CENTURY,FRANCE,MAP,WINE

Map. Copper plate engraving with original hand coloring. Image measures 15" x 19.5". This incredible 17th century map depicts the region surrounding Reims, France - the famous French wine making region of Champagne. The map labels numerous villages, towns, rivers, and important cities including Chalons, Eperney, Ay, Sezanne, and more. Mountains and forests are beautifully rendered in profile. A decorative title cartouche features two flags and a compass rose, with north oriented to the upper right. World famous for its spectacular sparkling wines of the same name, the region of Champagne was historically bound by the bishopric of Liege and Luxembourg in the north and Burgundy in the south. The map is in very good condition with very minor wear along the original centerfold. Latin text on verso. 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 series was published by his son Johannes (c. 1599-1673), who took over the business upon his father's death. This is a beautiful example of his work.t