Provence,- Comte et Gouvernement De .. ['Carte des melancholiques' - Melancholics map].

The first state of this fine, detailed Sanson map of southern France, including Provence. It extends along the Mediterranean coast from the mount of River Rhone in the west to "Vinitimille" and the Genovese border in the east. The detail extends northwards to Montelimar.
This edition carries the date 1652, engraved by Robert Cordier. This example map bears an additional manuscript title in the upper margin: 'Carte des melancholiques' (Melancholics map). With a decorative title cartouche and with mileage scales.

Nicolas Sanson was to bring about the rise and rise of French cartography, although the fierce competition of the Dutch would last until the end of the century. His success was due partly to the partnership with the publisher Pierre Mariette.
In 1644, the latter had purchased the business of Melchior Tavernier and helped Sanson with financial support in producing the maps. In 1657, Pierre Marriette died, however his son, also named Pierre, co-published 'Les Cartes Générales de toutes les parties du Monde'. the following year.
It was the first folio French produced world atlas.