At first glance, this satirical map appears to be simply an amusing commentary on the growth of Paris over the centuries as it once more “burst its corset.” Concentric circles of walls mark the boundaries of ancient Lutece and during the reigns of Philippe Auguste, Charles V, Louis XIII and Louis XVI, as well as the limits of the contemporary city. Within each set of walls are colorful caricatures of the citizens engaged in activities of the time. Many carriages are shown during the reign of Louis XVI, for example, along with men fencing. In the modern city, we see men shooting at each other, jazz bands, artists at work, and much dancing and drinking.
On further study, the picture is not quite so sunny. Outside the city walls, illustrated in a dull grey-green, hoards of people approach the city from all directions. They come on foot, by car and bus and bicycle and horseback (and in one case, apparently, on an elephant). Many appear to be carrying their goods; others have farm implements. One group (at the upper right) appears to be a military unit of some sort with long guns. Perhaps La Vie Parisienne was suggesting the need to Build the Wall.
The collection includes a number of maps in the art deco style of the time. For others, Search > "deco". Cornell University Library is pleased to present this digital collection of Persuasive Maps, the originals of which have been collected and described by the private collector PJ Mode. The descriptive information in the “Collector’s Notes” has been supplied by Mr. Mode and does not necessarily reflect the views of Cornell University.
