Old pictorial map of Normandy, 1955

Rémy Hétreau's La Normandie, France (1955) is a stunningly crafted pictorial map that captures the charm and cultural richness of the Normandy region. Hétreau, a mid-20th-century French illustrator and cartographer, was celebrated for his ability to blend cartographic precision with artistic storytelling, and this map exemplifies his unique style.

The map is a visual celebration of Normandy, showcasing its geography, history, and culture in vibrant detail. Rather than adhering strictly to conventional cartographic methods, Hétreau employs a pictorial approach, incorporating illustrations of landmarks, historical events, and regional icons. Key sites such as the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel, the gothic cathedrals of Rouen and Bayeux, and the beaches that would later be remembered for the D-Day landings are highlighted. Each element is depicted with an artistic flourish, making the map both informative and visually engaging.

Hétreau’s use of color is particularly striking. Soft pastel tones dominate the map, evoking a sense of pastoral beauty, while bold accents draw attention to significant features. Surrounding the map are decorative borders, often incorporating motifs from Normandy’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, such as medieval tapestries, maritime imagery, and rural life scenes.

The map also emphasizes the region's historical importance. Normandy’s legacy as the land of the Vikings, its role in the Norman Conquest of England, and its contributions to French art and literature are subtly referenced in its design.

Created in the post-war period, La Normandie, France reflects a renewed appreciation for regional identity and pride in France's cultural and natural heritage. Today, Hétreau’s map is admired not only as a cartographic achievement but also as a piece of mid-20th-century graphic art, encapsulating the timeless allure of Normandy. 

Find more maps of Remy Hetreau