"Henrici Ranzovii Producis Cimbrici Opera et Impensis Delineatum Anno A C.N. 1593...", Braun & Hogenberg

Braun & Hogenberg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum or "Cities of the World" was published between 1572 and 1617. Within the six volumes, 531 towns and cities were depicted on 363 plates, providing the reader with the pleasures of travel without the attendant discomforts. Braun wrote in the preface to the third book, "What could be more pleasant than, in one's own home far from all danger, to gaze in these books at the universal form of the earth . . . adorned with the splendor of cities and fortresses and, by looking at pictures and reading the texts accompanying them, to acquire knowledge which could scarcely be had but by long and difficult journeys?" Braun and Hogenberg incorporated an astonishing wealth of information into each scene beyond the city layout and important buildings. The plates provide an impression of the economy and prominent occupations, and illustrate local costumes, manners and customs.

This lovely bird's-eye view depicts the town of Plon and was commissioned by Heinrich Rantzau, Lord of the Lower Elbe, in 1593. The town is shown jutting out into the Great Plon Lake, while the palace of Rantzau is illustrated at upper left. Forests and farmland surround the lake, which has several boats and two fisherman pulling their nets. In the foreground, costumed figures take in the view. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel p. 391; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #3424.

Condition: B+

A nice impression on watermarked paper with some minor toning. There are some tape remnants on verso from a previous framing that show through in the corners on recto.