1700 - 1773
Cartographer and publisher who succeeded his relative, Guillaume Delisle., and became royal geographer in 1729. He was elected to the Academy of Sciences the next year.
He re-published many maps by Delisle and Jaillot.
He was well known for his theoretical work on the physical aspects of geography, especially relating to mapping of the submarine world and devising methods of indicating underwater contours.
His physiographic system divided the Earth’s surface into four basins, separated by a scaffolding of mountain ranges overland and beneath the oceans. He applied this theory particularly to interpreting the geography of North America and the Pacific Ocean.
From Russian discoveries in the Bering Strait he deduced the existence of Alaska and the Aleutians. Buache was also a pioneer in the use of contour lines to express relief on maps.
Dictionary of map makers
An illustrated list of makers of maps, charts and globes from the earliest time of cartography to present.
Email the author your remarks about this article.
Email this article to a friend.
Printer friendly page
