"Huum Opp. Condrusorum Caput", 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 view of the beautiful town of Huy shows the city from the northeast. Huy, a municipality of Belgium, lies on the River Meuse in the province of Liege. The Gothic collegiate church of Notre-Dame, a landmark of the town since its completion in 1536, stands tall towards the center, labeled "2" from the legend at top right. Other buildings are featured, including the Royal Citadel and several other churches. The Huy coat of arms is depicted at top left.

References: Fussel, p. 147-148.

Condition: B+

Old color with wide margins and lower portion of centerfold reinforced with Japanese tissue on verso. There is a minute crack due to the oxidation of green color near bottom, with a small amount of adhesive residue on verso, but paper is very stable. Minor soiling in blank margins.