Calvados Circa 1950

This circa 1950 original map poster of Calvados, designed by André Lesot, is a beautifully detailed representation of this historic region in Normandy, France. Produced by Éditions Géographiques André Lesot, Paris, the map showcases the department’s intricate road networks, railways, and topographical features, offering a fascinating glimpse into mid-20th-century cartography.

The design reflects the precision and artistry of traditional French mapmaking, with finely drawn borders, color-coded routes, and carefully labeled towns and cities. Caen, the capital of Calvados, is prominently highlighted, along with other significant locations such as Lisieux, Bayeux, and Honfleur. The coastline along the English Channel (La Manche) is also beautifully rendered, emphasizing the region’s geographical importance.

During the 1950s, maps like this were essential tools for travelers, geographers, and historians, serving both practical and educational purposes. This particular edition captures the post-war landscape of Calvados, a region deeply affected by World War II, especially during the D-Day landings of 1944.

Today, this map stands as a collector’s piece, valued for its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and meticulous craftsmanship. Whether displayed as a decorative artwork or used for research, it remains a remarkable tribute to the rich heritage and geography of Calvados.

Map - Tourism - Normandy - France

Printed by Gaillac Monrocq et cie in Paris

Good condition, traces of folds