|
||
|
|
|
|
This map, titled Comitatus Burgundiae tam in Primarias ejus Praefecturas quam in Minores earundem Ballivatus ... Nova Repraesentatione Geographica Facta, was published in the early 18th century by Johann Baptist Homann, a prominent German cartographer. It depicts the Franche-Comté region, historically known as the Free County of Burgundy.
The map illustrates the Franche-Comté region, which was part of the Holy Roman Empire and later annexed to France in the late 17th century following the Treaty of Nijmegen (1678). The boundaries of major administrative divisions (praefecturae) and smaller jurisdictions (ballivatus) are outlined in vivid hand-colored delineations, showcasing the political organization of the time.
Prominent cities such as Besançon, the regional capital and seat of the Archbishopric, are prominently marked, alongside other key settlements like Dole, Vesoul, and Salins-les-Bains, known for their historical significance and economic roles. The map also highlights Geneva and the surrounding Lac de Genève (Lake Geneva), emphasizing the region's proximity to Swiss territories.
The map captures the Jura Mountains' rugged terrain, rivers such as the Doubs, and other natural features, reflecting the area's topographical diversity. The detailed engraving style of Homann enhances the representation of mountains, forests, and waterways, offering a visually rich geographical depiction.
The map’s decorative cartouche in the bottom-right corner is a hallmark of 18th-century cartographic artistry. It features allegorical figures, including a seated woman holding a shield with fleur-de-lis, symbolizing French sovereignty, and classical representations of knowledge and governance. The cartouche is surrounded by cherubs and motifs of military and administrative power, reinforcing the importance of the region within the broader context of European geopolitics.
This map reflects the Franche-Comté’s status as a critical border region during a period of intense territorial reorganization in Europe. Its inclusion of administrative and geographical details serves both as a practical reference for governance and a statement of control, particularly in light of the region's incorporation into the Kingdom of France under Louis XIV.
Johann Baptist Homann (1663-1724) was a mapmaker who founded the famous Homann Heirs publishing company. He lived his entire life in Bavaria, particularly in Nuremberg. Initially, Johann trained to become a priest before converting to Protestantism and working as a notary.
In 1702, Johann founded a publishing house that specialized in engravings. The firm flourished, becoming the leading map publisher in Germany and an important entity in the European map market. In 1715, Johann was named Imperial Geographer to the Holy Roman Empire by Charles VI and made a member of the Prussian Academy of Sciences. Most importantly for his business, his reputation and contacts gained him imperial printing privileges which protected his publications and recommended him to customers. Johann is best known for this Grosser Atlas ueber die ganze Welt, or the Grand Atlas of the World, published in 1716.
After Johann died in 1724, the business passed to his son, Christoph (1703-1730). Upon Christoph’s early death, the company passed to subsequent heirs, with the name of the company changing to Homann Erben, or Homann Heirs. The firm continued in business until 1848.
![[Rhine River Region -- Basle to Strassbourg]](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/75325.jpg)
![[ Gravelines ] Grauelinge attacato dalle Armi Francesi sotto il Maresciallo della Ferte Seneterra alli 16 di Agosto 1658, reso alli 28 dello stesso mese](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/102594.jpg)
![[English Channel] De Cust van Vlaenderen en Engelandt van Oostende tot deur de Hoofden](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/75243.jpg)
