Franche-Comté Region, France

This magnificent late 17th century map by Hubert Jaillot captures Franche-Comté at a pivotal moment in French history, just fourteen years after Louis XIV wrested the strategic region from Spanish Habsburg control. The map meticulously documents the French administrative reorganization into three Grand Bailiwicks: Amont, Aval, and Milieu de Dole. Jaillot, working from his prestigious Rue Saint-Jacques workshop near the Augustinian convent, was among the foremost cartographers of the French Baroque period. The elaborate allegorical cartouche bears a dedication to Monseigneur le Dauphin, placing this work firmly within the orbit of royal patronage. Period hand-coloring in soft greens, pinks, and yellows delineates the administrative boundaries, while the mountainous Jura range is rendered in dramatic profile shading along the eastern border with Switzerland. Lac de Genève anchors the composition at the lower right. A distinguished example of French cartographic art from the reign of the Sun King, this map bridges practical administrative documentation with the decorative grandeur expected by courtly collectors. The royal privilege notation confirms its authorized status within the French publishing system. Size: 36.75" x 25.5" Artist: Alexis-Hubert Jaillot Condition: Very Good, Age appropriate fading, toning and wear. Marks/Stains as per photo. General border wear. Original centerfold present.