Sign In

Frans Laboulais' Congo Belge provides a vibrant portrayal of mid-20th-century Central Africa. Published in Brussels, Belgium, in 1949, this map represents a fine example of its kind. The detailed and colorful pictorial of the Belgian Congo comes to life through Laboulais' artwork, infusing depth and dynamism into the geographic layout.

Congo Belge acts as a testament to the complex geopolitics of the post-World War II decolonization period. The map, resplendent with illustrations, unveils the landscape of the Belgian Congo, showcasing major cities, towns, roads, railroads, and airways. Intriguing drawings throughout the map offer insights into the colony's genre scenes, revealing the lives of the people, agricultural products, mines and minerals, flora and fauna, and waterways.

A small hut, notable on the map, serves as an advertising space for the Compagnie Maritime Belge, S.A. of Antwerp. The variety of advertisements found in different versions of the map indicates that this space was a dynamic marketing platform for multiple Belgian companies, showcasing the commercial ties between Belgium and the Congo.

A pictorial-based legend, titled "Legende," meticulously details key features, from the administrative hierarchy - "Chef-lieu de la Colonie" - to the national agricultural institute - "Institut National pour l'Étude Agronomique au Congo". It also underscores the richness of Congo's natural resources, marking areas for diamond, gold, uranium, and tin extraction. Furthermore, it identifies regions dedicated to specific agricultural products like "Zones des palmeraies" (palm groves) and "Zones cotonnières" (cotton zones), illuminating the economic structure of the Belgian Congo.

The map reveals "La Caisse Générale d'Epargne et de Retraite" as its sponsor and "Les Éditions De Visscher" as the copyright holder. These elements underscore the intertwined relationship of cartography, commerce, and colonialism.

In conclusion, Congo Belge represents more than a geographic layout; it serves as a comprehensive visual narrative of the Belgian Congo in 1949. It illuminates the multifaceted aspects of this region, from its physical geography to its socio-economic structures and colonial links to Belgium.