Normannia Galliae celebris Provincia in terras suas et Ballifiatus divisa, ex prototypo..

Title

Normannia Galliae celebris Provincia in terras suas et Ballifiatus divisa, ex prototypo..

Description

Magnificent map showing the whole of Normandy with large title cartouche, coat of arms and mile markers.

ca. 1733

Artist

Homann Erben (1724-1780)

Johann Babtiste Homann (1664-1724) was born in Oberkammlach, the Electorate of Bavaria. Although educated at a Jesuit school, and preparing for an ecclesiastical career, he eventually converted to Protestantism and from 1687 worked as a civil law notary in Nuremberg. He soon turned to engraving and cartography; in 1702 he founded his own publishing house. Homann acquired renown as a leading German cartographer, and in 1715 was appointed Imperial Geographer by Emperor Charles VI. Giving such privileges to individuals was an added right that the Holy Roman Emperor enjoyed. In the same year he was also named a member of the Prussian Academy of Sciences in Berlin. Of particular significance to cartography were the imperial printing privileges (Latin: privilegia impressoria). These protected for a time the authors in all scientific fields such as printers, copper engravers, map makers and publishers. They were also very important as a recommendation for potential customers. In 1716 Homann published his masterpiece Grosser Atlas ueber die ganze Welt (Grand Atlas of all the World). Numerous maps were drawn up in cooperation with the engraver Christoph Weigel the Elder, who also published Siebmachers Wappenbuch. Homann died in Nuremberg. He was succeeded by the Homann heirs company, which was in business until 1848. The company was known as Homann Erben, Homanniani Heredes, or Heritiers de Homann abroad.

Historical Description

Normandy is a historical region in the northwest of France on the coast of the English Channel. Its history has been strongly shaped by Vikings, medieval duchies, and important events of the Second World War. Normandy developed into a powerful region in the Middle Ages. The Norman duke William the Conqueror invaded England in 1066 in the Battle of Hastings and later became King of England. This created a close political connection between England and Normandy. Later, the region was fought over several times by England and France, especially during the Hundred Years’ War. In 1450, France finally succeeded in reconquering Normandy. In the following centuries, Normandy developed into an important agricultural and maritime region. Ports such as Le Havre became significant trading centers. Today, Normandy is a culturally and historically important region with famous sights such as Mont-Saint-Michel. It is also well known for its coastal landscape, its history, and specialties like Camembert cheese and cider.