Carte des Etats de Parme et de Modene - Santini 1779

📜 Description
Antique engraved map depicting the States of Parma and Modena, published in Venice by the Remondini press in 1779 after Paolo Santini, and belonging to the eighteenth-century “Atlas Universel” cartographic production. The map illustrates the political and territorial configuration of Northern Italy during the late Enlightenment period, extending from the Republic of Genoa and the Ligurian coast to the Duchies of Parma and Modena, with detailed representation of the Po Valley territories and the Apennine mountain chain. The composition is organized through a clear scientific layout characterized by a dense toponymic network, political borders highlighted with period hand coloring, river systems, mountain ranges, and principal communication routes connecting the Emilian and Ligurian territories. The engraved title cartouche “Carte des Etats de Parme et de Modene” positioned in the lower right corner identifies the geographical subject of the plate and contributes to the decorative balance typical of late eighteenth-century European cartography. The etched engraving technique produces a sharp and analytical line, combining documentary precision with formal elegance and making the work a significant example of Venetian scientific cartography intended for consultation, geographical study, and editorial dissemination.

📚 Historical-Artistic Note
Paolo Santini was among the principal Venetian cartographers and publishers of the eighteenth century, known for the dissemination of updated geographical atlases based on the most advanced European cartographic models of the period. The Remondini printing house, active in Venice and Bassano, played a central role in the circulation of maps and illustrated works throughout Europe. Maps of this type reflect the growing interest in territorial precision and administrative representation characteristic of Enlightenment cartography, combining scientific rigor with decorative clarity.

🧾 Technical Details
Title: Carte des Etats de Parme et de Modene
Type: Original engraved map
Author / Cartographer: Paolo Santini
Designer / Engraver: not indicated
Publisher / Printer: Remondini
Place: Venice
Period: 1779
Material: Paper
Technique: Etching
Coloring: Period hand coloring
Edition / Print Run: From “Atlas Universel”
Dimensions: sheet 50.5 × 71 cm; plate mark/engraving 46.5 × 61.5 cm

🔍 Condition Report
Sheet in excellent overall condition. Engraved surface well impressed and fully legible. Period hand coloring well preserved. Minor traces of age consistent with the period and the nature of the support. Blank verso.