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.

Two fine engravings of French provincial cities drawn by Joris Hoefnagel in 1561. The top view shows Tours situated on the river Loire. The name of the city comes from the ancient Gallic tribe called the Turones. The subtitle "the garden of France" is beautifully illustrated with a rich landscape and pastoral scenes surrounding the city. The bottom view depicts the city of Angers situated at the confluence of the rivers Maine and Loire. The most notable buildings are the magnificent twin-spiraled Cathedral of Saint Maurice and the Castle of Angers with its soaring towers. In the foreground is a great scene of men working the famous slate quarries. Latin text on verso.

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Condition: A

Couple of minor spots, else near fine with a very sharp impression. Remnants of hinge tape on verso.