"Ens Austriae Civitas Superiorem ab Inferiore Dividens", 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.

Fabulous panoramic view of the city with a cathedral, the belfry of the municipal building, and the castle identified. Three gentlemen fish beside a bridge that spans the Enns River. A lovely example of Jacob Hoefnagel's engraving style with his signature and the date engraved at the foot of the bridge. Latin text on verso, published in 1618. There are two cracks visible in the plate at bottom right.

References: Fussel, pp. 458-59; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #1246.

Condition: B+

A sharp impression on a sheet with a horn watermark, light soiling, a tiny hole along the centerfold just above the top neatline, and an old paper repair of a centerfold separation in the bottom margin that has partially reopened.