Old map Marseille 1930s-40s public works hydraulic vintage document

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This vintage archival document shows a handwritten technical plan drawn in ink and pencil, typical of public works records from the 1930s-40s. The visible page presents an overview of a hydraulic development in Marseille, with the mention "Bassin de la Pinède" and various identified urban elements (dikes, quays, coastline, boarding areas). Several technical annotations and colored lines (notably a red outline and a pink watercolor area) highlight the importance of certain structures in the project.

The plan's composition is distinguished by clear and precise lines, characteristic of engineering plans of the era, with handwritten legends and a sober layout. Legible inscriptions include the term "Embarcadère" (pier), references to measurements, as well as a handwritten title on the right-hand page, partially visible, evoking "Surélévation du quai" (Quay Elevation) and detailed dimensions in meters.

The overall appearance of the document reveals slightly ivory paper, with a matte texture and black lines, enhanced with colored touches for area differentiation. The whole is presented open on a wooden lectern, offering a clear view of both pages of the plan. No official stamp, signature, or seal is visible on the photographed side.

The handwritten typography, the organization of the plan, and the nature of the annotations are typical of technical archives from the first half of the 20th century, particularly in the context of major port or hydraulic infrastructure works around Marseille. This type of document was used by engineers and urban planners for planning and construction site monitoring.

The plan includes several markers and designations, facilitating the understanding of the site and its developments. The details provided by the different lines demonstrate the methodical approach of engineers of the time, concerned with the precision and readability of their working documents.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The document shows an old patina of use, with no major apparent defects on the visible side. Paper kept flat, colors and lines clearly legible.

Did you know? Handwritten plans for public works from the 1930s-40s were produced by specialized draftsmen, before the widespread adoption of mechanical reproduction. Each plan was a unique piece, serving both as a technical reference and a meeting support for engineers and local decision-makers.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller, expertise in antique documents and technical plans.

Keywords: old Marseille map, vintage technical document, 30s hydraulic map, public works archives, handwritten map, retro technical drawing, port urbanism, engineer's map, historical Marseille document, old engineering drawing, hydraulic plan vintage, plan travaux publics France