This is a framed hand-coloured antique map titled “Partie de L’Inde au dela du Gange” (left panel) and “Presqu’Isle de L’Inde au de la du Gange” (right panel). The map depicts regions of Southeast Asia, including present-day parts of India, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and the Malay Peninsula. The central focus is on the lands located “beyond the Ganges,” reflecting the European geographical perspective of the period.

The mapmaker credited in the cartouches is Nicolas Sanson, a renowned French cartographer of the 17th century, often called the “father of French cartography.” His maps are notable for their detailed representation of regions based on the knowledge of his time and their decorative style, characteristic of the early modern period.

This map would have been originally published in the mid to late 17th century and is an important example of how Europeans viewed and represented Southeast Asia during the colonial era, often featuring mythical or speculative geography alongside established cities and rivers. The presence of both geographic and decorative elements highlights its dual role as a reference and as a work of art.

There are additional antique maps available in the showroom!