Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (1703–1772) was a prominent 18th-century cartographer, whose career spanned around 50 years. He played a transitional role in cartography, bridging the gap between 18th and early 19th-century styles. Bellin prioritized accuracy and functionality over decorative elements, distinguishing his work from the more ornate maps of the 17th and early 18th centuries. His maps, particularly of Canada and French territories in North America, are highly regarded for their precision.
Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571–1638) was a renowned Dutch cartographer, atlas maker, astronomer, and publisher from Amsterdam. Also known as Guillaume Blaeu or Guiljelmus Janssonius Caesisus, he became the official map-maker for the Dutch East India Company in 1633. In addition to his cartographic work, Blaeu printed religious texts from various faiths, including Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish works.
Rigobert Bonne (1727–1794) was a leading French cartographer of the late 18th century. After the War of the Austrian Succession, he gained recognition as an expert in mathematics, physics, and geography in Paris. In 1773, he succeeded Jacques-Nicolas Bellin as Royal Cartographer to France. Bonne is known for creating detailed and accurate maps, marking a shift in cartography from the ornate styles of earlier periods to a more scientific and practical approach, representing a key development in the field during that time.
Thomas Bowen (1733–1790) was a Welsh map engraver, known for his work on maps and charts, including those of the West Indies and London. He apprenticed under his father, Emanuel Bowen, a prominent mapmaker. Thomas' work were printed and distributed by various publishers during the late 18th century.
Philipp Cluver (1580-1622) was a German geographer and historian, born in Danzig (now Gdansk, Poland). Initially a law student at the University of Leiden, he later shifted focus to history and geography. Cluver traveled extensively across Europe before returning to Leiden, where he was appointed as the university's geographer and overseer of its library. Today he is recognized as one of the pioneers of historical geography.
Gilles Robert de Vaugondy (1688–1766) and his son, Didier Robert de Vaugondy (1723–1786), were prominent 18th-century French cartographers. They were renowned for the accuracy and detail of their maps, which they developed through a combination of personal geographic expertise, scholarly research, explorer journals, and astronomical observations. They were meticulous in referencing their sources, contributing to their esteemed reputation in the field of cartography.
Johann Christoph Harenberg (1696-1774) was a German Protestant theologian and historian. He studied theology, philosophy, archaeology, and history at the University of Helmstedt. Harenberg is known for his historical studies of Gandersheim and biblical exegesis. His works, including maps, focused primarily on biblical history and were published during the mid to late 18th century.
