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 colorful depiction presents the city of Chester situated on the banks of the River Dea. Based on the survey of William Smith, the bird's-eye plan shows the prominent Norman castle, walled defenses and central cathedral. The original rectangular Roman Legion settlement of Deva is still evident at the heart of the city. Dramatic coats-of-arms, strapwork cartouches, livestock grazing in the surrounding fields, and gentlemen with their hunting dog add decoration to the interesting plan. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 205-207; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #874.

Condition: B+

A sharp impression with full contemporary color, some color offsetting, marginal soiling, and a short tear in the top margin. There are remnants of hinge tape on verso.