"Znaymum Vulgo Znaym, Moraviae Civitas Primaria", 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.

This beautiful panoramic view shows the city of Znojmo along the Thaya River, near the border with present-day Austria. A dozen important locations are identified in a lettered key at top right, including the Town Hall tower (C) looming above the city, the Gothic Church of St. Nicholas (B), and the 13th-century Gothic castle (A). A covered wooden bridge extends across the river, and two pairs of costumed figures fill the foreground. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 464-65; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #4943.

Condition: B+

A nice impression on a watermarked sheet with light toning along the centerfold, an archivally repaired tear adjacent to the centerfold at bottom, and marginal soiling. There are small remnants of hinge tape on verso.