Catalog Archive
Auction 116, Lot 431

"Cestria Vulgo Chester, Angliae Civitas", Braun & Hogenberg

Subject: England

Period: 1588 (circa)

Publication: Civitates Orbis Terrarum.

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17 x 12.7 inches
43.2 x 32.3 cm
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This colorful depiction presents the city of Chester situated on the banks of the River Dea. Based on the survey of William Smith, the bird's-eye plan shows the prominent Norman castle, walled defenses and central cathedral. The original rectangular Roman Legion settlement of Deva is still evident at the heart of the city. Dramatic coats-of-arms, strapwork cartouches, livestock grazing in the surrounding fields and gentlemen with their hunting dog add decoration to the interesting plan. Latin text on verso.

References:

Condition: A

Overall very good with an old repair on worm tracks in bottom blank margin. Remnants of framer's hinges on verso.

Estimate: $800 - $1,000

Sold for: $700

Closed on 9/20/2006

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