Catalog Archive
Auction 170, Lot 707

"Blat CII", Schedel, Hartmann

Subject: Incunabula

Period: 1493 (published)

Publication: Nuremberg Chronicle

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11.7 x 17.8 inches
29.7 x 45.2 cm
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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.

The recto of this sheet of German text shows an illustration of the Descent of the Holy Spirit, with Mary seated on a throne, reading the Scriptures to the apostles who surround her. The Holy Spirit appears above, symbolized by a dove with outspread wings. On verso are vignettes of the Ascension of Mary, the Coronation of the Virgin Mary, and St. Peter as the First Pope.

References:

Condition: A

Light marginal soiling.

Estimate: $110 - $140

Sold for: $140

Closed on 11/14/2018

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