Jean-Dominique Cassini – Land Planisphere Showing Longitude, 1696 Antique world maps HQ

The drawing presents a terrestrial planisphere arranged in a circular projection centered on the Arctic region. The artist has employed fine lines to delineate continents and islands, with a notable emphasis on detail within the northern hemisphere. A network of radiating meridians extends from the central pole outwards, intersecting concentric circles that mark degrees of latitude. These lines are meticulously drawn, suggesting an attempt at precise measurement and spatial representation.
The cartographic conventions used indicate a European perspective during the late 17th century. The labeling is in Latin script, with place names rendered in a formal style characteristic of scientific documentation from the period. Notably, the northern regions appear relatively well-defined compared to areas further south, hinting at the limited geographical knowledge available at the time regarding those regions. The depiction of North America and Europe displays a degree of accuracy for its era, while other continents are presented with less certainty, showing speculative landmasses or incomplete coastlines.
The aged paper exhibits significant discoloration and staining, contributing to a sense of historical depth and suggesting that this is an original document rather than a reproduction. The imperfections in the paper’s surface – the creases, tears, and foxing – add texture and character, further emphasizing its age and provenance. A handwritten annotation appears at the bottom edge, likely a marginal note or reference added by a previous owner, which provides additional context regarding the works history of use.
Beyond its function as a geographical representation, the drawing carries subtexts related to the burgeoning scientific inquiry of the period. The meticulous detail and systematic grid suggest an ambition for rational understanding and quantification of the natural world. It reflects a moment when cartography was increasingly intertwined with exploration, navigation, and imperial ambitions – a tool not only for charting physical space but also for asserting dominion over it.