Graeciae Pars Septentrionalis

Cartographer / Artist: Guillaume Delisle

Date Created: c. 1707

Medium: Copperplate engraving

Physical Dimensions: 28.5 × 21.6 inches

Geographic Scope: Northern Greece, Macedonia, Thrace, Aegean Sea

Archive Catalog ID: fp5-img-1944

Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive

Collection: Greece

This finely detailed antique map, titled Graeciae Pars Septentrionalis, was crafted by the prominent Royal French cartographer Guillaume Delisle. The map delineates the northern regions of ancient Greece and the surrounding classical territories, including Illyria, Macedonia, Thessaly, Epirus, Thrace, Moesia Superior and Inferior, alongside parts of Mysia and Phrygia in Asia Minor. Delisle was celebrated for his pioneering scientific approach to mapmaking, replacing traditional speculative cartography with precise astronomical calculations and rigorous historical source criticism. The geographical scope extends from the Ionian and Adriatic Seas in the west to the Propontis (Sea of Marmara) and the Euxine Sea (Black Sea) in the east. Major Aegean islands such as Lemnos, Samothrace, Imbros, Thasos, and Lesbos are clearly charted, as are prominent peninsulas like Mount Athos (Chalcidice). Ancient regional divisions, tribal territories, cities, rivers, and mountain ranges are rendered in Latin nomenclature, offering a comprehensive reference to the geography of classical antiquity. Graphically, the map features a clear distance scale in the upper left corner comparing Greek stadia, Roman miles, and English miles. Outer latitude and longitude borders frame the map with precision. Delisle's elegant copperplate engraving style is demonstrated in the delicate coastline hatching, fine lettering, and balanced spatial layout typical of early 18th-century French cartographic masterworks.

Condition: Clean, crisp copperplate impression with full original margins.. Faint uniform age-toning and light handling marks near the outer sheet edges.. Very minor centerfold crease as issued, with no tears or structural damage.

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Graeciae Pars Septentrionalis
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Greecec. 1707

Graeciae Pars Septentrionalis

By Guillaume Delisle

Archival Overview & Authenticated Facts

Authentic period c. 1707 Copperplate engraving by Guillaume Delisle documenting Northern Greece, Macedonia, Thrace, Aegean Sea. Measures 28.5 × 21.6 inches. Verified original holding from the Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive.

Acquisition Status$80
Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive • 100% Guaranteed Authentic Original

Physical Specifications & Details

Medium & Technique
Copperplate engraving
Sheet / Plate Size
28.5 × 21.6 inches
Date / Era
c. 1707
Geographic Scope
Northern Greece, Macedonia, Thrace, Aegean Sea
Archive Catalog ID
fp5-img-1944
Provenance
The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Preservation & Condition Report
  • Clean, crisp copperplate impression with full original margins.
  • Faint uniform age-toning and light handling marks near the outer sheet edges.
  • Very minor centerfold crease as issued, with no tears or structural damage.

Historical Context & Archival Analysis

This finely detailed antique map, titled Graeciae Pars Septentrionalis, was crafted by the prominent Royal French cartographer Guillaume Delisle. The map delineates the northern regions of ancient Greece and the surrounding classical territories, including Illyria, Macedonia, Thessaly, Epirus, Thrace, Moesia Superior and Inferior, alongside parts of Mysia and Phrygia in Asia Minor. Delisle was celebrated for his pioneering scientific approach to mapmaking, replacing traditional speculative cartography with precise astronomical calculations and rigorous historical source criticism. The geographical scope extends from the Ionian and Adriatic Seas in the west to the Propontis (Sea of Marmara) and the Euxine Sea (Black Sea) in the east. Major Aegean islands such as Lemnos, Samothrace, Imbros, Thasos, and Lesbos are clearly charted, as are prominent peninsulas like Mount Athos (Chalcidice). Ancient regional divisions, tribal territories, cities, rivers, and mountain ranges are rendered in Latin nomenclature, offering a comprehensive reference to the geography of classical antiquity. Graphically, the map features a clear distance scale in the upper left corner comparing Greek stadia, Roman miles, and English miles. Outer latitude and longitude borders frame the map with precision. Delisle's elegant copperplate engraving style is demonstrated in the delicate coastline hatching, fine lettering, and balanced spatial layout typical of early 18th-century French cartographic masterworks.

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Every map, fine print, and photograph offered by Rubini Antique Maps and Prints is an authenticated, 100% original period work produced during its stated publication date or era. We never sell modern reproductions or digital facsimiles. All cataloged items carry verified provenance originating from the historical collection of Dr. Joseph R. Rubini, backed by complete historical attribution.