"Alten Stettin", 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 shows the city of Szczecin from the west, centered on the market square with the town hall adjacent. The large building at bottom center is the Cathedral of St. James (formerly St. Jacob). The Oder River flows in the background, filled with vessels of various sizes. French text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 311.

Condition: A

A crisp impression on watermarked paper with two small worm tracks along the centerfold in the image and minor toning.