Rare Large Antique Map of the Eastern Roman Empire – Nicolas Sanson – c. 1637 (Paris, Tavernier) – Hand Coloured – Provenance Mark Object Antique map Title of Map “Romani Imperii Oriens est Descriptio Geographica…” Cartographer: Nicolas Sanson (1600–1667) Publisher: Melchior Tavernier, Paris Date: 1637 (early issue, mid-17th century) Origin France Dimensions Map: 43 × 60 cm Technique: Copperplate engraving with original or early hand colouring Material: Handmade laid paper Condition: Good condition considering age (almost 400 years old) Central fold as issued Light toning and age wear Minor foxing and small stains (visible in photos) Margins slightly worn Overall very well preserved for its age and highly displayable Description A rare and impressive large-format 17th-century map depicting the Eastern part of the Roman Empire, extending across: The Eastern Mediterranean The Balkan Peninsula and Greece Asia Minor (Anatolia) The Black Sea (Pontus Euxinus) The Caspian Sea (Mare Caspium) Parts of North Africa and the Near East This map is a fine example of early French cartography, combining: Classical geographical knowledge Early modern territorial divisions Elegant engraving and decorative baroque cartouches Historical Importance Nicolas Sanson is widely regarded as: The founder of French scientific cartography A key figure bridging Renaissance and Enlightenment mapping This work represents one of the earliest systematic attempts to map the classical world with scholarly accuracy, marking a turning point away from purely decorative Dutch cartography. Provenance / Notable Feature A small handwritten inscription “Rhabana” is visible in the lower margin. This is interpreted as a historical ownership mark, adding an additional layer to the map’s history and provenance. Such marks are often appreciated by collectors as evidence of the object’s journey through time. Rarity: Early Sanson maps, especially Tavernier editions, are increasingly scarce Large-format examples in good condition are highly collectible