1961 Jihel Pictorial Map of France and its Wine Regions

This is a rare 1961 Jihel pictorial map of France's wine regions.

A Closer Look

The bold graphic features a large map of France over which superimposed a powerful rooster and a chain of hand-holding wine producers dancing across the countryside. Major wine-producing regions are highlighted, including Champagne, Bordeaux, Cotes du Rhone, Bourgogne, Alsace, and the Val de Loire, Graves, Sauternes, Beaujolais, Côte de Nuits, and Côte de Beaune, Minervois, and Frontignan. Cognac and Armagnac are also noted. Major cities named include Montpelier, Lyon, Grenoble, Dijon, Metz, Orléans, and Angers. The French cockerel, wearing a tricolor ribbon, dominates the upper portion of the sheet.

Rooster

The central figure on this map, a large crowing rooster, is a significant symbol in both France and in French wine. The 'coq gaulois,' as it is known, symbolizes heritage, resilience, and spirit. This rooster has been associated with France since ancient times, as the Latin word for rooster, 'gallus,' also means Gaul, the ancient region that corresponds largely with modern France. The rooster is particularly associated with the 'Label Rouge' certification and the 'Vin de Pays d'Oc' wines. Its association with wine connotes quality and authenticity, highlighting adherence to traditional rigorous production standards. The rooster often represents wines that are deeply rooted in French heritage and terroir, reflecting a commitment to superior agricultural practices and regional identity.

Publication History and Census

This map was created by Jihel and published by the French government in 1961. This piece is rare. We are aware of 2 examples in private collections, and no examples appear in OCLC.