Nicolas de Fer: A Cartographer Driven by Artistic Vision Nicolas de Fer (France, 1646 – 1720) stands as a fascinating figure in the history of French cartography and engraving during the Baroque era. Unlike many of his contemporaries who prioritized meticulous accuracy—a hallmark of scientific exploration—Fer’s artistic inclinations overshadowed geographical precision, resulting in maps that were more decorative than dependable. This…