Bidspirit auction | Jacques-Nicolas Bellin Hand-Colored Copperplate Engraving

Jacques-Nicolas Bellin Hand-Colored Copperplate Engraving Nautical Map Carte des Isles Lucayes - Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (French, 1703-1772). Hand-colored copperplate engraving, Carte des Isles Lucayes, c. 1764. The nautical map depicts the Bahama Islands with detailed soundings and rhumb lines radiating from a compass rose, including portions of the Florida coastline and northern Cuba. The work is presented in a gilt wood frame with a beige mat. A cartouche in the upper right corner is inscribed CARTE DES ISLES LUCAYES Par M. B. Ing.r de la Marine. Sight: 9 1/2 x 12 in. Frame: 15 3/4 x 18 3/8 in. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.