Amerique du Nord: Vuillemin, c.1840

This is a finely detailed, mid-19th century French map of North America encompasses the entire continent, including present-day Canada, the United States, Mexico, Central America, Greenland, and the Caribbean, with national boundaries outlined in hand-applied color. French place names are used throughout, and notable geographic features such as rivers, mountain ranges, and the Arctic region are clearly depicted. Longitude is measured from the Paris meridian, as indicated at the top.

Background on Creator

Alexandre Vuillemin (1812–1880) was a prominent 19th-century French cartographer and editor based in Paris. Renowned for his prolific output, he produced numerous atlases and maps that stood out for their decorative style, often featuring elaborate margin illustrations such as vignettes, portraits, and city views. Vuillemin studied under the esteemed French cartographer Auguste Dufour and established his own publishing operation in Paris. His works, including the highly regarded "Atlas illustré de géographie commerciale et industrielle," were widely popular and frequently reissued in multiple editions. Despite his significant influence on 19th-century cartography, much of Vuillemin’s personal life remains obscure, though records indicate he married Josephine Caroline Goret in 1852 and had at least one child. His maps and atlases are held in major collections worldwide, including the British Museum and the University of Alabama, and continue to be valued for their detail, artistry, and historical significance.