1898 Geffory Monument Map of Paris

A stunning and most unusual monumental map of Paris issued in 1898 by Henri Geffroy. The map is similar is content and style to similar and far more common monument maps of Paris published from about 1899 to 1840 by Leconte, Guillemin, Hachette, and others. The present example, nonetheless, has a vastly different color scheme and, more importantly, is both more finely engraved and beautiful than any of these later maps. We believe it may be the model upon which subsequent such maps were based, preceding as it does the next earliest such map, issued in 1899. Like these later maps, the present map by H. Geffroy is a combination of a bird's-eye view and a more traditional map. Centered on the Seine the map covers the embastilled heart of Paris. Monuments, important buildings - including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame - and even trains are drawn in profile. Beyond the walled centre of Paris, the surroundings follow a more traditional view model, wherein distant objects recede according to the laws of perspective. There is also a clear horizon line. Published by Henry Geffroy from his office at 222, Bouldvard St. Germain, Paris.