BRAUN, GEORG 1541 1622 AND FRANS HOGENBERG FL C 1540 1590 (83 resultados)

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 6/8 x 15 6/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Douai, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (surface abrasion restored). A magnificent view of the city of Douai in northern France, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. The celebrated University at Douai was founded in 1562 and provided a Catholic education for English boys who were prevented from practicing their faith in their home country. As such the city became a center for the Counter-Reformation, translating the bible into English and publishing the New Testament in Rheims in the same year as this view was published. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 17 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved images of the towns of Lebrija and Setenil de la Bodegas in Spain, the title and sub-title within fine mannerist cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (some surface abrasions). A exceptionally fine and detailed views of the Andalusian towns of Lebrija and Setenil de la Bodegas in Spain, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. These magnificent views show the ancient castle of Lebrija surrounded by the olive groves for which it is famous, and Setenil perched atop the cliffs above the River Guadalporcun, with gently undulating hills on the opposite bank where a goatherd tends to some unruly goats. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 16 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved image of the city of Orleans on the Loire, the title within a fine mannerist cartouche, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (margins slightly browned). A exceptionally fine and detailed view of the beautiful Loire valley city of Orleans, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. This magnificent view of the celebrated and historic city of Orleans shows the city during the reign of Henri III of France. Building and roads are depicted in minute detail, including the gallows at Martroy. The all important bridge, from which the city derived a substantial income, is prominent in the fore-ground, as are many of the sail boats which navigated the great and busy river. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 x 16 6/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Lille, the key within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (short marginal tear in the lower edge, just touching the image). A magnificent view of the city of Lille, in French Flanders, near the border with Belgium, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. During the 16th-century the area around Lille was beset by religious conflict. The first Calvinists appeared in there in the 1540s and by 1555 the Catholics were actively repressing the Protestants. In 1581, at the instigation of Elizabeth I of England, the northernmost, and mostly Protestant, of the Seventeen Provinces, successfully revolted and formed the United Provinces. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Frankenberg, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (lower margin with separation at centerfold affecting the image, one or two small surface abrasions). A magnificent view of the city of Frankenberg on the banks of the Eder, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. An impressive view of the city built on a mountain above the river Eder and at the site of an ancient crossroads. Frankenberg burnt down in the 15th-century and was later rebuilt in the 16th, as it appears here. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Eschwege and Fritzlar, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the cities, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two minor marginal stains). Magnificent views of the cities of Eschwege on the Werrar and Fritzlar on the Eder in Hesse, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Fritzlar is celebrated as the birthplace of Christianity in Germany, and of the German Empire. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 14 4/8 x 16 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Halberstadt and Quedlinburg, the titles within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (central vertical crease, short tears in the lower margin). Magnificent views of the cities of Halberstadt and Quedlinburg in Herz Germany, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. During the 17th-century Halberstadt attracted an increasingly Jewish population, while Quedlinburg became Protestant during the Reformation. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the City of Weimar, the title and sub-title within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (central vertical crease, short tears in the lower margin affecting the image). A magnificent views of the celebrated city of Weimar, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Long considered the focal point of the German Enlightenment, the place where Germany's first democratic constitution was signed after WWI, and the birthplace of the Bauhaus movement, Weimar's cultural heritage is huge. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Soest and Warburg, the title and keys within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (some minor marginal staining). Magnificent views of the cities of Soest and Warburg in Westphalia, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 14 2/8 x 18 6/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the cities of Arnhem, Venlo, Gelre, and Roermond, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (short marginal tear in the lower edge, just touching the image). A magnificent view of the cities of Arnhem on the Rhine, Venlo, and Gelre and Roermond on the River Maes, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Arnhem was the capital of Gelderland at this time. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Kampen, the title and key within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, decorated with the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (short tear in the lower margin, one or two marginal spots). A magnificent view Kampen on the river Ijssel in Holland, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. In 1572 Kampen was conquered from the Spaniards by Willem van den Bergh, a brother of William the Silent (William I, Prince of Orange 1533 -1584). But the city was soon back in Spanish hands, only to be re-taken in 1578, at the Siege of Kampen, led by George van Lalaing. The view shows that Kampen was a bustling city at the end of the 16th century, despite the conflicts of the Eighty Years War, and the fields opposite show textiles being laid out to dry. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 x 18 6/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Leeuwarden and Franeker, the titles within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (some marginal staining). Magnificent views of the cities of Leeuwarden and Franeker in Friesland, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Both cities were early to side with William the Silent (William I, Prince of Orange 1533 -1584) during the Dutch Revolt. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 x 14 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved image of the city of Rouen on the River Seine, the title and key within fine mannerist cartouches, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (short marginal tear and one or two pale stains). A exceptionally fine and detailed view of the City of Rouen, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. This magnificent view of Rouen shows the city during the reign of Henri IV of France. Building and roads are depicted in minute detail, including the famous cathedral which had been extensively damaged by the Calvinists and lightening on a number of occasions in the recent past. Henri IV often laid siege to the city, notably during the siege of December 1591 to May 1592, with the help of a Spanish army led by the Duke of Parma. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 x 16 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Tienen, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two pale marginal stains). A magnificent view of the town of Tienen in Flanders, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Tienen is now best known for its sugar industry. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 2/8 x 15 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Autun and Nevers, the titles within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches and decorated with the Royal arms, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two pale marginal stains). Two magnificent views of the ancient town of Roman town of Autun, and Nevers on the Loire, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 x 17 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Zwolle, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two marginal spots). A magnificent view Zwolle on the rivers Ijssel, Vecht, Aa and Zwarte in Holland, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 x 16 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Bergen-op-Zoom, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two pale marginal stains). A magnificent view of the town of Bergen-op-Zoom in the southern Netherlands, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. By the time of this view Bergen-op-Zoom was one of the main armories and arsenals of the United Provinces. It naturally defended by marshland, and difficult to besiege because of its access to the sea.During the Eighty Years War the Dutch were able to hold Bergen-op-Zoom against seiges by Alessandro Farnese first in 1587, and by Ambrosio Spinola in 1622. Both sieges were unsuccessful and Bergen op Zoom got the nickname La Pucelle or The Virgin as it was never thoroughly beseiged. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 6/8 x 16 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Passau, the title, sub-title and key within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (central vertical crease, short tears in the lower margin affecting the image with early cellotape repair, one or two pale marginal stains). A magnificent view of the city of Passau at the confluence of the Inn and Danube rivers, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Shortly before this view was created Archduke Ferdinand I, representing Emperor Charles V, secured the agreement of the Protestant princes to submit the religious question to a diet. This led to the signing of the Peace of Augsburg in 1555. Passau is most famous, however, for its sword and blade making industry. The local smiths stamped their blades with the Passau wolf, which became so popular a motif that other cities' smiths, including those of Solingen, adopted it for themselves. By the 17th century, Solingen was producing more wolf-stamped blades than Passau was. In 1662, a devastating fire consumed most of the city. Passau was subsequently rebuilt in the Baroque style. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved images of the cities of Chartres and Chateaudun in France, the titles within fine mannerist cartouches, decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the cities, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (margins a bit browned). Exceptionally fine and detailed views of the Cities of Chartres and Chateaudun in France, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. This pair of magnificent views show the cities during the reign of Henri III of France, shortly before Henri IV was crowned in Chartes in 1589. Buildings and roads are depicted in minute detail, including the famous cathedral where Henri IV was crowned. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 5/8 x 16 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Grenoble and Romans-sur-Isere, the titles within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the cities, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (short marginal tear). Two magnificent views of the celebrated Dauphine cities of Grenoble (now a major ski resort) and Romans-sur-Isere, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. At the time of this view Grenobles was a major protestant stronghold, led by François de Bonne, duc de Lesdiguières 1543 - 1626). At the accession of Henry IV to the throne of France, he allied himself with the governor and the lieutenant general of the Dauphiné, but this did not protect the city from further religious strife. In 1590, the Ligue, a Catholic force, took Grenoble and refused to parlay. After months of warfare, Lesdiguières defeated the Ligue and took back Grenoble, and became the leader of the entire province. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 x 17 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Mechelen, the title within fine mannerist strapwork cartouche and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two pale marginal stains). A magnificent view of the town of Mechelen in Belgium, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Mechelen rose to prominence in the 16th-century under the patronage of Archduchess Margaret of Austria (1480-1530), as a centre of political power and the arts. Her father, Emperor Maximilian, named Margaret governor of the Low Countries and guardian of her young nephew Charles (the future Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor) in 1507, and she became the first female regent of a major European territory who was neither the mother nor the wife of a major sovereign. From her palace at Mechelen, Margaret negotiated a treaty of commerce with England favorable to the Flemish cloth interests, and played a role in the formation of the League of Cambrai (1508). Her reign was a period of relative peace and prosperity for the Netherlands, before the troubles of the Protestant Reformation reached their peak. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 15 6/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Luxembourg, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche and decorated with the Royal arms and the arms of the city, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (some surface abrasions, one or two marginal spots). A magnificent view of the city of Luxembourg, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. At the time of this view Luxembourg was part of the Hapsburg Empire, and in 1598 Philip II of Spain bequeathed Luxembourg and the other Low Countries in his possession to his daughter the Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia and her husband Albert VII, Archduke of Austria. Albert was an heir and descendant of Elisabeth of Austria (d. 1505), queen of Poland, the youngest granddaughter of Sigismund of Luxembourg, the Holy Roman Emperor. Thus, Luxembourg returned to the heirs of the old Luxembourg dynasty. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 3/8 x 18 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Arras, the title and key within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, decorated with the Royal arms, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two marginal stains). A magnificent view of the city of Arras in northern France, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. A wealthy city, with its roots in the wool and textile industries, the Union of Atrecht (the Dutch name for Arras) was signed there in January of 1579 by the Catholic principalities of the Low Countries that remained loyal to king Philip II of Habsburg; it provoked the declaration of the Union of Utrecht, unifying the northern provinces of the Netherlands, until then under the control of Habsburg Spain. The Union of Utrecht is regarded as the foundation of the Republic of the Seven United Provinces, which was not recognized by the Spanish Empire until the Twelve Years' Truce in 1609. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 3/8 x 17 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved views of the cities of Philippeville, Mariembourg, Chimay, and Walcourt, the titles within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (some surface abrasions restored, one or two marginal spots). Magnificent views of the frontier towns of Philippeville, Mariembourg, Chimay, and Walcourt in Belgium, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 16 4/8 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Enkhuisen, the title and key within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (tear in the lower margin affecting the image, one or two marginal spots). A magnificent view of Enkhuisen in the Netherlands, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Enkhuisen lies at the entrance to the Zuiderzee, and so not only was it well fortified at the time of this view, but a safe harbor for ships sailing to all parts of the world, many of which can be seen in this engraving. Enkhuisen was also one of the first towns to declare support for William the Silent (William I, Prince of Orange 1533 -1584) from 1572, as he led the rebellion against the Hapsburg King Philip II of Spain. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 4/8 x 17 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of the city of Namur, the title within a fine mannerist strapwork cartouche, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (tear in the lower margin affecting the image, one or two marginal spots). A magnificent view Namur in Belgium, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography.".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 6/8 x 18 inches to the neat line). Two fine engraved views of the city of Verona, the titles, sub-title and key within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (central vertical crease, short tears in the lower margin affecting the image with early tape repairs to verso, one or two pale marginal stains). Magnificent view of the city of Verona in Italy, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. "Two households, both alike in dignity/ In fair Verona, where we lay our scene/ From ancient grudge break to new mutiny/ Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean" (Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet"). The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 13 6/8 x 19 inches to the neat line). Two fine engraved views of the cities of Orvieto and Lauretum, the titles within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (some surface tears restored, one or two pale marginal stains). Magnificent views of the cities Orvieto and Laurentum in Italy, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. During the Sack of Rome in 1527 by Charles V, Pope Clement VII sought refuge in Orvieto, a city built upon a volcanic acropolis with a network of underground passages. The ancient Roman town of Laurentum, built on the Italian peninsular, has a fine view of the Mediterranean. The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 6/8 x 18 4/8 inches to the neat line). Two fine engraved views of the east and west of Lake Agnano, and the lost city of Cumae, in Italy, the title and explanatory text and quotes from Virgil s "Aeneid" within fine mannerist strapwork cartouches, all within a border decorated with garlands of flowers, fruit and vegetables, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two pale marginal stains). Magnificent views of the east and west of Lake Agnano, and the lost city of Cumae, in Italy, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Ortelius and Hoefnagel are depicted in each of the images in homage. Georg Hoefnagel (1542-1600) contributed much of the original material for the Spanish and Italian city views in the "Civiataes." The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".

"Single sheet (15 6/8 x 20 4/8 inches; 12 x 15 inches to the neat line). Fine engraved view of Phlegraean Fields, otherwise known as the Campi Flegrei in Italy, the title and explanatory text within stylized horseshoe cartouches, all within an elaborate mannerist border culminating in allegorical interpretations of an Ass and Medusa, all with exceptionally fine deep, rich original hand-colour in full, with German text on the verso (one or two pale marginal stains). A magnificent view of the legendary sulphur fields near Naples, in Italy, from the very rare German edition of George Braun and Frans Hogenberg's landmark "Civitates orbis terrarium", completed in Cologne between 1572 and 1618, and among the most beautiful and important images of Renaissance cities. Ortelius and Hoefnagel are depicted in homage. Georg Hoefnagel (1542-1600) contributed much of the original material for the Spanish and Italian city views in the "Civiataes." The "Civitates " was the first extensive series of town views that treated its subject matter in an accurate and meaningful way. Earlier collections of town views were far more limited in scope, and often made no real attempt to render the subject city with any degree of realism being simply a record of the existence of a town. Certainly the striking beauty and accuracy of Braun and Hogenberg's production was entirely unprecedented. Earlier collections contained no more than a handful of views, usually only of the more important cities, while the "Civitates " contained literally hundreds of views, including many of smaller towns for which no earlier views are known. Even for the larger, important cities, the "Civitates " is of the utmost importance to the history of their topography".