Ministere de la guerre - Precis de topographie 1945 [military panoramic sketches] - 1954-1945

Two publications by the French Army on map reading and the production of panoramic drawings.

The importance of panoramic drawings for the army in and around 1945 was of crucial tactical and strategic significance, as they served as a direct, reliable, and quickly interpretable aid for reconnaissance, target designation, and fire support. Although World War II saw the rise of large-scale aerial photography, drawn landscape panoramas (military panoramic sketches) retained an indispensable operational value up to the capitulation in 1945.

Tactical reconnaissance and target acquisition
In the front line, particularly for artillery and infantry, panoramic field sketches were essential. An observer or scout drew the horizon and the forward terrain accurately from a high point.

Present in good condition, though with signs of use, stained cover, spine damaged. (see photos for a good impression of it)