Europa - Frankrig / Corsica Island; Hell / Dépôt de la Marine - Corse - Sardaigne : Grande Carte Marine des Bouches de Bonifacio - 1821-1850

This is an original 1823 map of the Bouches de Bonifacio, a strait between Corsica and Sardinia. It is the result of a comprehensive maritime survey carried out by Captain Hell of the French Navy between 1821 and 1822. The map accurately depicts the rugged coastline, islands, and surrounding waters of this strategically important region in the Mediterranean. Detailed bathymetry is provided along with numerous navigational aids and landmarks, including the location of reefs, shoals, and other hazards. The map is in good condition, but for its age, displaying typical folding characteristics, including subtle staining in the center fold, indicating the use and age of this nautical chart. The map is printed on thick paper with excellent detail in the engraved map image itself, which was clearly intended for practical maritime use and accurate navigation. This chart was produced by the French Hydrographic Office “Dépôt de la Marine” for navigational purposes, offering invaluable insight into the region's maritime history. The chart is an essential collectible for maritime historians and collectors of antique maps, providing a unique glimpse into the early 19th-century naval mapping and exploration and a glimpse into the past of an important body of water in the Mediterranean Sea.