Carte de l'Isle de Terre-Neuve, l'Acadie, ou la Nouvelle Écosse, l'Isle St. Jean et la Partie Orientale du Canada
Cartographer / Artist: Rigobert Bonne
Date Created: c. 1780
Medium: Copperplate engraving with hand coloring
Physical Dimensions: 14.5 × 9.7 inches
Geographic Scope: Eastern Canada and Northeastern United States
Archive Catalog ID: fp4-img-1917
Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Collection: Canada
This fine late 18th-century map by French cartographer Rigobert Bonne illustrates Eastern Canada and parts of the Northeastern United States. Depicted in detailed topographical and hydrographical detail are Newfoundland (Isle de Terre-Neuve), Nova Scotia (Acadia/Nouvelle Écosse), Prince Edward Island (l'Isle St. Jean), Anticosti Island, the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Labrador, Quebec, and coastal New England down to Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The map highlights key fishing grounds such as the Grand Banks (Grand Banc de Terre-neuve) alongside coastal soundings and shoals essential for maritime navigation. Rigobert Bonne served as the official Hydrographer to the French Navy (Ingénieur-Hydrographe de la Marine), resulting in highly accurate geographic projections for the period. The map features dual longitude indicators measured from the Prime Meridians of Ferro (top axis) and Paris (bottom axis). Distinct regional outlines are enhanced with period wash coloring, separating British and French territorial claims, indigenous tribal regions (such as the Iroquois, Micmacs, and Mistassins), and colonial settlements.
Condition: Original hand coloring remains vibrant with clear distinction of geographical boundaries.. Minor age-toning and light handling marks present primarily along the outer margins.. Crisp plate impression with full original margins preserved.




