Nicolas-Antoine Boulanger – Nouvelle mappemonde, 1753

The work presents a world map, divided into two hemispheres, rendered in a style characteristic of mid-18th century cartography. The overall tone is one of meticulous detail and scientific aspiration, yet also reveals underlying cultural assumptions about the known and unknown regions of the globe.
Here we see the Western Hemisphere depicted on the left, and the Eastern Hemisphere on the right, joined by an elaborate allegorical figure in the center. This central figure, a female personification draped in flowing robes, holds aloft what appears to be a terrestrial sphere, symbolizing knowledge and dominion over the world. Her posture is regal, suggesting authority and control. The decorative elements surrounding each hemisphere – floral motifs, cartouches, and compass roses – are executed with considerable artistry, contributing to the map’s aesthetic appeal.
The geographical representation itself reflects the state of European understanding at the time. Coastlines are generally well-defined in areas frequently visited by Europeans, while interior regions remain largely speculative, marked with notations indicating uncertainty or reliance on second-hand accounts. The depiction of North America is particularly revealing; vast territories are labeled Terra Incognita (Unknown Land), highlighting the limits of European exploration and the perceived emptiness of these spaces. Similarly, inland Africa appears sparsely populated and shrouded in mystery.
The text accompanying the map – visible along the bottom edge – is crucial to understanding its subtexts. It is written in French, a language associated with intellectual and colonial power during this period. The presence of extensive explanatory notes suggests an intention not merely to present geographical information but also to contextualize it within a broader framework of scientific inquiry and imperial ambition. These notes likely discuss the sources used for the map’s construction, as well as offering commentary on the cultures and natural resources of various regions.
The maps design subtly reinforces European centrality. The projection employed distorts the relative sizes of continents, often exaggerating Europe’s importance while diminishing that of Africa and South America. This visual bias reflects a Eurocentric worldview prevalent in 18th-century society. Furthermore, the allegorical figure at the center, embodying knowledge and dominion, implicitly positions European civilization as the pinnacle of human achievement.
In conclusion, this map is more than just a geographical representation; its a cultural artifact that encapsulates the scientific aspirations, imperial ambitions, and inherent biases of its time. It offers a window into how Europeans perceived their place in the world and their relationship to other cultures and territories.