"Marseille", 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.

Superb plan of the oldest city in France, derived from Belleforest's similar plan. The harbor is defended by three large forts, with a floating gate guarding the harbor entrance. The city is dominated by the 12th century cathedral and a cartouche at top contains the key to the major buildings. Levantine trading ships are shown in the surrounding sea and harbor, and people are shown seine fishing from an offshore island. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 145; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #2634.

Condition: B+

A dark impression on a sheet with a small coat of arms watermark and light, scattered foxing.