Douce Atlas

Douce Atlas

Named after its only recorded owner Francis Douce (1757–1834), the Douce Atlas holds a number of mysteries. It is not known who created the cartographic work, nor who commissioned it, let alone used it. Nevertheless, the atlas is one of the most exciting manuscripts in the Bodleian Library in Oxford: its seven vellum charts and the two double-page miniatures are pasted onto wooden boards, which are only slightly thinner than the wooden covers of the codex. This materiality reminds the atlas of multi-layered diptychs, as the maps are literally unfolded. At the same time, the maps are transformed into the form of a codex, which had been established for atlases since the Late Middle Ages.

Protective Covers for Seafaring

Both the wooden binding, which is decorated with elaborate intarsia, as well as the matching box were used to protect the maps inside – both on land and at sea. The case, also made of wood, is lined with dark pink parchment and covered with dark leather on the outside, adorned with wonderful floral cuir-ciselé ornaments and three inscriptions. These were cut into the leather with a sharp tool, creating sublime reliefs. Moreover, a small dot pattern was embossed into the background. The inscriptions in Gothic letters read: "In dio haver ben", "par bon amor" and "per bone respecto".

Questionable Usage

There was probably once a strap attached to the case, which theoretically allowed it to be slung over the shoulder and taken along everywhere. Two lugs on the side also allow the carrying of other nautical instruments. However, the Douce Atlasnever really seems to have been taken to sea. This is at least indicated by its exceptionally good condition. It is also likely that a work of such precious materiality was intended for representation rather than actual usage.

Focus on the Mediterranean

However, the high-quality nautical charts would have been perfectly practicable for this purpose. They show the coastlines and islands of the Black Sea, the Mediterranean (divided into five maps) and the European Atlantic coast including large parts of Great Britain. The delicate illustrations highlight important harbors in red, while small islands appear in green and blue.

Gorgeous Miniatures as Framework

The maps are not only enclosed by their wooden binding. The first and last double page of the codex show splendid miniatures, each with two figures in smoothly draped robes and in charming colors. The Annunciation to Mary prefaces the work: teh Virgin is wearing a gold-lined blue cloak and is facing the Archangel Gabriel, who is about to announce the miraculous message to her. At the end of the codex, on the other hand, two individual saints are depicted: the Evangelist Mark and Paul with a book and sword. They are attributed to the so-called Maestro della Parousia, who was active in 15th century Italy and created a worthy framework for this remarkable atlas with his graceful figures.