Bidspirit auction | Framed 1770 French Coromandel Coast

Framed 1770 French Coromandel Coast Map - This is a rare, authentic 1770 French copperplate engraving by M.B.C.T. (attributed to chief French military engineer Jean Bourcet) and engraved by P. Croisey in Paris. Titled Theatre de la Guerre dans l'Inde sur la Coste de Coromandel (Theater of War in India on the Coromandel Coast), this exceptional 18th-century military map captures the intense colonial Seven Years' War rivalries between French, British, and local Indian forces across Tamil Nadu. It is oriented to the east and showcases an ornate central cartouche topped with an architectural illustration of a Hindu temple (Vue d'un Temple ou Pagode des Gentils). The map is flanked by 19 detailed architectural inset plans of critical regional fortresses, including Pondicherry and Fort Calcutta. The piece exhibits typical age-related toning, minor localized staining, and slight paper undulation beneath the glass frame, but it retains exceptionally crisp, sharp impression lines throughout. It comes beautifully presented in a classic matted dark wood frame accented by a gold-toned inner lip line. This particular Bourcet/Croisey military layout is remarkably scarce on the open market, with very few institutional examples recorded globally (including the British Library and BNF). H 32.5”, W 46”, D 1”. Please see photos for condition. Note: Pickup/Transport required. Contacts available Post-Auction. From the Dale Beeks collection.