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This anthropomorphic map of France was published in Geographical Fun (London, 1868).  

This striking satirical map anthropomorphizes France as a hook-nosed lady, elegantly dressed and holding a gilt mirror in which she admires her own reflection. The map symbolizes France’s perceived cultural dominance and self-admiration during a period of significant national change—on the verge of the Third Republic. 

The figure of the lady is ingeniously shaped by the map’s geography. Her head, adorned with an elaborate headdress, represents northern France, with her nose stretching over the Straits of Dover. Her flowing dress, richly patterned and colored, covers the central and southern parts of France, while the Bay of Biscay and Mediterranean Sea frame her outline. Brittany forms a lavishly decorated gilt mirror that she holds aloft, reflecting her vanity and preoccupation with appearance. 

The accompanying verse beneath the image reads:

“A hook-nosed lady represents fair France,
Empress of cooks, of fashions, and the dance.
Her flatt'ring glass declares that vitr'ry, power,
Beauty, wealth, arts are her imperial dower.”

This text reinforces the portrayal of France as a nation preoccupied with fashion, luxury, and cultural superiority. The reference to "cooks, fashions, and the dance" alludes to France’s renowned culinary traditions, haute couture, and artistic achievements. However, the satirical tone suggests a critique of French self-admiration and the nation's desire for recognition and dominance, particularly in cultural and imperial matters. 

This map is part of Geographical Fun, an atlas of caricature maps of European countries that blends art, humor, and political commentary. According to the preface, the illustrations were drawn by a fifteen-year-old girl (Lilian Lancaster) to entertain her ailing brother; however, the maps are widely attributed to William Harvey (1796–1873), a London doctor and journalist. Harvey was also known for his literary work, particularly London Scenes and London People (1863).

The atlas serves as a lighthearted yet insightful reflection of the major political changes shaping Europe at the time, including the rise of figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi in Italy and Otto von Bismarck in Germany. Each map combines playful anthropomorphic imagery with subtle commentary on national characteristics and international relationships. 

The map exemplifies the Victorian era's fascination with combining education and entertainment, using caricature to engage audiences with geography and current events.