Old Map of Ancient Egypt by Delamarche, 1757: Nile, Pyramids, Sphinx, Temples, Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Memphis, etc.
Introducing the exquisite “Carte De L’Egypte Ancienne et Moderne Dressee sure Celle du R.P. Sicard et autres,” a masterful creation by the renowned 18th-century French geographer Charles Francois Delamarche. Crafted in 1757, this map offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient and modern landscapes of Egypt, meticulously detailing the Nile River Valley and Delta. The map is a testament to Delamarche’s dedication to cartographic precision and his ability to weave historical narratives into geographical representations. It stands as a remarkable fusion of art and science, inviting viewers to explore the rich tapestry of Egypt’s storied past.
Delamarche’s map is based on the pioneering reports of Father Claude Sicard, a French Jesuit priest who ventured into Egypt between 1708 and 1712. Sicard’s observations and the earliest known map of Egypt provided the foundation for this detailed cartographic masterpiece. The map not only identifies place names with both ancient and modern nomenclature but also highlights significant trading routes, particularly the vital corridor between the Red Sea and the Nile. This focus on trade underscores the historical importance of Egypt as a nexus of commerce and culture.
The map is adorned with an elaborate cartouche, featuring allegorical representations of the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and other symbols of ancient Egypt. This decorative element adds a layer of artistic elegance, drawing the viewer’s eye and providing a visual anchor for the historical narrative depicted. The detailed engraving showcases the Nile River’s meandering path, its fertile delta, and the surrounding deserts, offering a comprehensive view of the region’s geography. The inclusion of ancient temples and ruins further enriches the map, providing insights into Egypt’s architectural and cultural heritage.
In addition to its artistic and historical value, the map serves as a detailed geographical record, marking the locations of numerous cities and towns. From the bustling metropolis of Cairo to the ancient city of Thebes (modern-day Luxor), the map captures the essence of Egypt’s urban landscape. It also highlights significant landmarks such as Memphis, Heliopolis, and the famed Rosetta (Rashid), each with its own unique historical significance. The meticulous labeling of these settlements provides a window into the past, offering a snapshot of Egypt’s development over millennia.
The map’s depiction of natural features is equally impressive, with the Nile River and its delta prominently featured alongside the Red Sea and the Mediterranean. The representation of mountain ranges and regional borders adds depth to the geographical context, illustrating the diverse terrain that has shaped Egypt’s history. This combination of natural and man-made elements creates a rich, layered narrative that invites exploration and discovery. Delamarche’s map is not just a geographical tool; it is a historical document that captures the essence of Egypt’s enduring legacy.
Cities and towns on this map
- Cairo (Al-Qahira)
- Alexandria
- Giza
- Luxor (Thebes)
- Aswan
- Memphis
- Heliopolis
- Sais
- Tanis
- Abydos
- Dendera
- Edfu
- Philae
- Kom Ombo
- Karnak
- Elephantine
- Rosetta (Rashid)
- Damietta (Dumyat)
- Suez (Suweis)
- Faiyum (Crocodilopolis)
- Minya
- Beni Suef
- Qena
- Sohag
- Assiut
- Qus
- Esna
- El-Kab
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Illustrations:
- Elaborate cartouche with allegorical representations of the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and ancient Egypt.
- Landmarks:
- Pyramids
- Sphinx
- Ancient temples and ruins
- Bodies of water:
- Nile River
- Nile Delta
- Red Sea (Mare Rubrum)
- Mediterranean Sea (Mer Mediterranee)
- Borders:
- Various regional borders indicated with colored lines.
- Mountains:
- Some mountain ranges and elevations indicated, though not prominently featured.
Historical and design context
- Edition: C F Delamarche edition of the Robert de Vaugondy map of Egypt.
- Place names: Identifies place names with both ancient and modern names.
- Labels: Cities and ancient temples/ruins are labelled.
- Trading route: Shows the main trading route from the Red Sea to the Nile.
- Detail: Excellent detail in the Nile River Valley and Nile Delta.
- Cartouche: Features an elaborate cartouche showing allegorical representations of the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and ancient Egypt.
- Source: Based on the reports of Father Claude Sicard, a French Jesuit priest and early modern visitor to Egypt between 1708 and 1712.
- Earliest map: Sicard produced the earliest known map of Egypt during his time as the Supervisor of the Jesuit Mission in Cairo.
- Date created: 1757
- Mapmaker/Publisher: Charles Francois Delamarche
- Context about the mapmaker: Delamarche was a prominent French geographer and map publisher in the 18th century.
- Topics and themes shown on the map:
- Ancient and modern place names: Reflects the historical evolution of place names.
- Trading routes: Highlights the significance of trade in the region, especially between the Red Sea and the Nile.
- Geographical features: Detailed depiction of the Nile River Valley and Delta.
- Historical landmarks: Includes representations of ancient temples and ruins.
- Countries and regions shown on the map: Primarily Egypt, with some surrounding regions.
- Design and style:
- Elaborate cartouche: Decorative cartouche with allegorical elements.
- Detailed engraving: High level of detail in geographical and man-made features.
- Historical significance:
- Early cartography: One of the earliest detailed maps of Egypt.
- Cultural heritage: Reflects the historical and cultural landscape of ancient and modern Egypt.
- Jesuit contributions: Based on the pioneering work of Father Claude Sicard.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.
The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father’s Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you’d like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
