I have a python plot, using the following code:

```
fig = plt.figure()
ax = plt.add_subplot(111)
ax.imshow(an_image)

```

What I want to do, is simply force the x and y axes, to span a certain minimum and maximum number. (Cannot do this with `ax.set_xlim()` or `ax.set_ylim()` because those *actually* change the axis limits). I just want some particular x\_min , x\_max , y\_min, and y\_max numbers to show up on my image. 

How do I do that?

EDIT: To further clarify what I mean, look at this image below. What I *want*, are the numbers on the axes written in red. I want them to replace what is already there in black. How do I accomplish that? 

[![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/WryQu.png)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/WryQu.png)

Thanks