"[Lot of 2] Folio XXV and Folio XXVI [Rhodes]", Schedel, Hartmann

Hartmann Schedel's Nuremberg Chronicle (Liber Chronicarum) was published in two editions, Latin and German, both in 1493, appearing in print just before Christopher Columbus' discoveries completely re-shaped the European view of the World. This splendid work presented the history of the world in a pictorial encyclopedia with approximately 285 pages of text and 1,800 woodcut illustrations. Among these illustrations are views of towns and cities throughout Europe and the Near East. The majority of these views are entirely imaginary. In fact, 49 of the views are actually printed from the same group of 14 woodblocks. There are also 30 double-page views of cities with more realistic images. In addition to the topographical images, there are an enormous number of other subjects, including diagrams of the Creation, comets, family trees, portraits & biblical scenes. The text was compiled and edited by Hartmann Schedel, printed by Anton Koberger, with illustrations designed by Michael Wohlgemuth and Willem Pleydenwurff, who cut the woodblocks, probably with the assistance of their apprentice, Albrecht Durer.

This lot features a fine imaginary view (8.7 x 6.7") on the verso of sheet XXVI of the ancient Greek colony of Rhodes which, according to ancient sources, was founded by the Rhodis prior to 776 B.C. The two sheets fit together to depict the lineage of the tribe of Ruben woven in an intricate, flowering vine connecting the sheets. On the recto of sheet XXV is the Royal lineage of Assyria, beginning with the legendary queen Semiramis. Latin text.

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Condition: B+

Folio XXV has minor soiling and remnants of paper tape. Folio XXVI is lightly toned with moderate soiling.