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 old port city of La Rochelle on the Bay of Biscay. A numbered key at top left identifies 16 locations, and three costumed figures balance the composition at bottom right. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 160; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #2219.

Condition: B+

A dark impression on a sheet with an eagle watermark. There is minor toning along the centerfold and a bit of light foxing.