Antique map of Kamchatka Peninsula, 1758

The map "Carte du Kamtchatka Dressée et Gravée par Laurent" created in 1758 by the French cartographer Jacques-Nicolas Bellin depicts the Kamchatka Peninsula, which is a vast and remote region in the Russian Far East. The map is notable for its historical significance in the exploration of this area and its contributions to geographic knowledge during the 18th century.

Kamchatka is characterized by its rugged terrain, volcanic landscapes, and its proximity to the Bering Sea. The map likely includes details of the coastline, major rivers, mountains, and potentially settlements or landmarks known at the time. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, I don't have specific details of the map's content beyond this general description, but it would have provided valuable insights into the geography of the Kamchatka Peninsula as understood in the mid-18th century.

This map would have been of interest to geographers, explorers, and historians, offering a glimpse into the geographic knowledge available during that era and the European exploration of distant and relatively unknown regions.

Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (1703-1772) was a renowned French hydrographer and cartographer known for his significant contributions to marine cartography during the 18th century. He held the position of "Ingénieur hydrographe" (Hydrographic Engineer) at the French Dépôt des cartes et plans de la Marine (Depot of Maps and Plans of the Navy), which was responsible for producing and maintaining nautical charts for the French navy.

Bellin produced a vast number of maps, charts, and atlases, covering a wide range of geographic regions, especially coastal areas and sea routes. His work was highly regarded for its accuracy and attention to detail. He was instrumental in refining the depiction of coastlines, coastal features, and navigational information, making his maps essential tools for sailors and explorers of his time.

One of his notable accomplishments was his collaboration with other prominent figures of the 18th century, including explorers and scientists. His maps often accompanied accounts of important voyages, making his work an integral part of the documentation of various explorations.

While he's recognized for his maritime cartography, Bellin also created maps of inland regions and contributed to geographical knowledge through his meticulous work. His maps and atlases continue to be of historical significance, shedding light on the state of geographical knowledge and the exploration of the world during the 18th century.

Find more maps of Jacques-Nicolas Bellin