"Wiismaria", 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 attractive birds-eye view of Wismar, Germany is situated on the Baltic Sea in northern Germany. Six brick churches are noted including the churches of St. Nicholas and St. Mary. In the forefront are a number ships and boats and natives in local costume. German text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 393-95.

Condition: B

Original color on watermarked paper with a small wormhole in script at bottom left and a few miniscule holes in the image only visible when held to light. All of the margins with the exception of the left side margin have been extended to better accommodate framing. Centerfold is reinforced with archival material. Light soiling and toning.