Produced circa 1950 for the Société Navale de l’Ouest, this original poster presents a detailed map of Western and Central Africa. Created as a promotional and informational document, it illustrates the extensive geographical network served by French maritime companies during the postwar period.
The composition extends from the Atlantic coast and Senegal to the Congo region, incorporating national borders, cities, ports, roads and inland transport routes. Carefully differentiated colors distinguish the coastline, forests, desert regions and major communication networks, creating a remarkably detailed yet highly decorative cartographic image.
A large compass rose bearing the emblem of the Société Navale de l’Ouest appears over the Atlantic Ocean. In the upper-right corner, a panel surrounded by tropical vegetation identifies the associated Société Ouest-Africaine d’Entreprises Maritimes. The listed offices include Dakar, Conakry, Abidjan, Lomé, Cotonou, Douala, Libreville, Port-Gentil, Pointe-Noire and Brazzaville.
Published by Dorel in Paris, the poster is marked “Édition originale” and numbered 0177. Its large horizontal format and restrained palette of blue, green, ochre and red combine the precision of a geographical map with the visual appeal of mid-century commercial design.
This original poster is an engaging historical document for collectors interested in maritime history, African cartography, shipping companies and French graphic design. Its unusual scale, extensive geographical detail and strong decorative presence make it particularly suitable for a library, office or collection devoted to travel and exploration.
Original Poster
Maritime Company - Tourism
West African Company Maritime - Dakar - Conakry - Abidjan - Lomé - Cotonou - Douala - Libreville - Port Gentil - Pointe Noire - Brazzaville
Copy number 177
Dorel Paris
Good condition, pinholes, light folds
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