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.

Superb engraving with two birds-eye views of the city, one as it was during the time of Christ and the other contemporaneous to the 16th Century. Each with tables locating important buildings and places. At lower right is a vignette of Moses receiving the Commandments and Aaron, whose garments and accouterments are listed in the table to the right.

References: Laor #1039.

Condition: A

Good impression and original coloring. One tiny thin spot along centerfold. Margins soiled and rough at one place, map very good.